CMV retinitis in HIV-infected patients: Plasma viral load utility in diagnosis.

OBJECTIVES

This study evaluates the role of CMV plasma viral load in diagnosing retinitis among Algerian HIV patients.

METHODS

Simultaneous ophtalmologic examination and CMV plasma viral load testing were conducted for 40 HIV patients with vision issues. Plasma viral load kinetics was determined during treatment, and in case of persistent viral load, resistance genotyping was performed.

RESULTS

Viral load findings correlated with ophtalmic examination results in 75 % of cases. Four (04) retinitis cases had undetectable viral loads. Virological monitoring identified Algeria's first ganciclovir-resistant CMV strain.

CONCLUSION

Plasma viral load testing is a valuable diagnostic tool but cannot replace ophthalmic examination. Quantitative PCR aids in effective virological monitoring and timely treatment initiation.