Frosted branch angiitis in a child with HIV infection.

PURPOSE: In adults with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, frosted branch angiitis is commonly associated with cytomegalovirus retinitis and responds to anti-cytomegalovirus therapy. We describe the first pediatric case of HIV-associated frosted branch angiitis.

METHODS

Case report.

RESULTS

A 7-year-old HIV-infected male with frosted branch angiitis was refractory to induction doses of intravenous ganciclovir and foscarnet over a 2-month period. Although cytomegalovirus antigenemia resolved, the angiitis only improved after subsequent treatment with systemic corticosteroids.

CONCLUSION

Frosted branch angiitis in this patient was not attributed to cytomegalovirus. The pathogenesis of HIV-associated frosted branch angiitis may differ between children and adults.