Cytomegalovirus retinitis (CMV retinitis) is a serious viral eye infection of the retina. It is most often found in people with weakened immune systems.
The earliest symptoms are floaters with a shadow appearing in your side vision as the disease worsens. Ophthalmologists need to check people with compromised immune systems for the disease.
Strengthening your immune system is an important part of treating CMV retinitis. People with HIV or AIDS often improve if they are on highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). There are also specific CMV retinitis treatments. These include antiviral medicines and laser surgery.
Although treatments are available, you cannot get back vision lost because of CMV retinitis. Even with treatment, the disease may still progress. So it is important to see your ophthalmologist regularly even if you do not have vision problems.
If you have any questions about your eyes or your vision, speak with your ophthalmologist. He or she is committed to protecting your sight.
