Open AccessHerpes zoster ophthalmicus and the orbital apex syndrome
Author(s) -
Bourke Robert D,
Pyle John
Publication year - 1994
Publication title -
australian and new zealand journal of ophthalmology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1440-1606
pISSN - 0814-9763
DOI - 10.1111/j.1442-9071.1994.tb01701.x
Subject(s) - herpes zoster ophthalmicus , optic neuritis , medicine , apex (geometry) , dermatology , anatomy , immunology , multiple sclerosis
Herpes zoster ophthalmicus (HZO) commonly causes isolated ophthalmoplegic syndromes. Visual loss caused by optic neuritis secondary to HZO can be reversible or irreversible. HZO rarely presents as an orbital apex syndrome, when an association with meningo‐encephalitis has been reported. We report a case of orbital apex syndrome secondary to HZO treated with systemic steroids and acyclovir. Our patient suffered no systemic complications and displayed a rapid resolution of optic neuropathy. We discuss this case in the light of previous reports and explore the possible pathogenic mechanisms involved.