Favorable visual outcome in cryptococcal meningitis.

PURPOSE: To describe an unusual, favorable visual outcome in a patient with lupus erythematosus and cryptococcal meningitis and to present bilateral superior oblique muscle paresis.

METHODS

Case report. A 15-year-old girl with lupus erythematosus and cryptococcal meningitis had bilateral superior oblique paresis, bilateral optic nerve head swelling, and increased intracranial pressure. She developed a visual acuity of no light perception in the right eye.

RESULTS

Treatment with oral fluconazole, acetazolamide, and dexamethasone, as well as repeated lumbar punctures to reduce intracranial pressure, was followed by recovery to a visual acuity of 20/20 in both eyes and normal ocular motility.

CONCLUSION

With appropriate treatment, visual loss associated with cryptococcal meningitis may have a favorable outcome.