Necrotizing scleritis due to varicella zoster infection: a case report.

PURPOSE: To report a case with necrotizing scleritis due to varicella-zoster infection.

METHODS

The patient records were evaluated. The present literature was investigated using MEDLINE. A six-year-old boy with varicella infection was admitted to our clinic with redness, pain, and lid edema on the right eye. Slit lamp examination revealed lid edema, purulent secretion, conjunctival injection and chemosis, and inferotemporal scleral necrosis. Sclera was avascular and the conjunctiva was spontaneously detached from sclera in the necrotic region.

RESULTS

Systemic and topical acyclovir treatment was started and a rapid improvement achieved in signs and symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

Ophthalmic manifestations of varicella infection are potentially blinding especially in the absence of appropriate diagnosis and medical intervention. Distinctive skin eruptions are specifically helpful in the early diagnosis of the disease.