Cystoid macular edema associated with cytomegalovirus retinitis in patients with the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome

Purpose To describe the clinical and fluorescein angiographic appearance of cystoid macular edema associated with cytomegalovirus retinitis in patients with the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Methods We retrospectively examined the clinical and photographic records of four patients with AIDS and cytomegalovirus retinitis who developed cystoid macular edema. Results Seven eyes of four patients with AIDS and cytomegalovirus retinitis experienced decreased vision associated with cystoid macular edema. Vitreous inflammation was mild in each patient. In all eyes, the retinitis involved zone 1, and in all but one eye, the cytomegalovirus retinitis was inactive. In one eye, the cystoid macular edema was worsened by formation of a dense juxtafoveal epiretinal membrane. Conclusions Although infrequently recognized, cystoid macular edema can cause visual loss in patients with AIDS and cytomegalovirus retinitis. Fluorescein angiography should be considered in any patient with cytomegalovirus retinitis and unexplained visual loss.