Diseases

Cmv Retinits

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Cytomegalovirus retinitis, also known as cmv retinitis, is an inflammation of the retina of the eye that can lead to blindness. Caused by human cytomegalovirus, it occurs predominantly in people whose immune system has been compromised, 15-40% of those infected with aids

SYMPTOMS

This is a type of retinitis that develops from a viral infection of the retina. Cmv (cytomegalovirus) is a herpes virus. Most people have been exposed to the virus, but it usually causes no harm. When a herpes virus is reactivated in people with weaker immune systems, it can cause retinitis.

CAUSES

Serious cmv infections can occur in people who have weakened immune systems as a result of: hiv/aids, bone marrow transplant, chemotherapy, drugs that suppress the immune system, organ transplant.