Uveitis associated with varicella virus vaccine

PURPOSE: To report a case of uveitis associated with the live attenuated va ricella virus vaccine (Varivax; Merck & Co, Inc, West Point, Pennsylvania) in a young, otherwise healthy girl. METHODS: The time of onset of uveitis in relation to vaccination and the nu mber and the pattern of distribution of vesicles were noted. The patient re ceived oral acyclovir and topical steroids and cycloplegic drops. RESULTS: The uveitis and vesicular rash improved significantly after 7 days of treatment. A literature review and communications with the drug's manuf acturer disclosed no identifiable previous cases of uveitis associated with Varivax. CONCLUSIONS: Uveitis should be recognized as a possible adverse side effect of the varicella vaccine. (Am J Ophthalmol 1999;127:733-734. (C) 1999 by E lsevier Science Inc. All rights reserved.).