Macular edema as the only ocular finding of tuberculosis.

PURPOSE: To describe an infrequent presentation of ocular tuberculosis.

DESIGN

Retrospective observational case report.

METHODS

A 61-year-old woman presented with decreased vision in her right eye and cystoid macular edema resistant to periocular corticosteroid treatment. There were no other findings.

RESULTS

Diagnosis of probable underlying tuberculosis uveitis with macular edema as the only ocular manifestation was established based on a clinical history of possible tuberculosis during her infancy. Additionally, there were residual findings in the patient's chest x-ray, a positive Mantoux reaction, and Mycobacterium tuberculosis in sputum. Specific treatment was implemented for nine months. Cystoid macular edema resolved completely, visual acuity improved (20/20), and no remission occurred during two years of follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

In cases of idiopathic cystoid macular edema, tuberculosis should be considered as a potential cause. When treated, both are curable.