Initial diagnosis of herpes zoster ophthalmicus complicated by central retinal artery occlusion and subsequent varicella-zoster virus encephalitis: a case report.

PURPOSE: To report the unusual case of a herpes zoster ophthalmicus (HZO) complicated by central retinal artery occlusion and viral encephalitis.

CASE REPORT: A 65-year-old male with HZO who underwent intravenous acyclovir treatment complained of sudden onset blurry vision of his left eye. Central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO) was revealed. We administered methylprednisolone pulse therapy, yet resulted in no visual acuity improvement.

CONCLUSION

There were only a few cases reported to have CRAO after diagnosed HZO. This cause of viral-related CRAO led to a complicated treatment decision.