A new meta-analysis has identified conjunctivitis as the most common eye-related complication of mpox, followed by impaired vision, keratitis, and eye lesions. The findings underscore the urgent need for early detection, routine eye examinations, and effective treatment, particularly in mpox-endemic regions such as Africa and among immunocompromised individuals.
Published in the Journal of Infectious Diseases, the study analyzed 25 previously published reports on mpox-related ophthalmic complications through September 8, 2024. Researchers in India conducted the systematic review, highlighting gaps in clinical guidelines due to a lack of comprehensive data.
Significant Prevalence of Eye Complications
The study found that 8.9% of mpox patients experienced conjunctivitis, while 4.3% had impaired vision. Keratitis and eye lesions each had a prevalence rate of 3.4%, while other ocular complications were observed in 12.4% of cases.
Keratitis, in particular, poses a serious risk, as delayed recognition and treatment can lead to severe outcomes, including corneal ulceration and permanent vision loss, the researchers noted.
“Direct viral invasion of ocular tissues or immune-mediated damage might account for these manifestations,” the authors wrote, emphasizing that complication rates may be influenced by the severity of mpox infection, patient demographics, and healthcare accessibility.
Call for Routine Eye Exams and Preventive Measures
The study stresses the need for routine eye examinations and timely referrals to ophthalmologists to improve patient outcomes. Researchers also highlighted the importance of preventive strategies, such as vaccination and early antiviral treatment, in mitigating disease severity and reducing the risk of complications like keratitis and vision loss.
“The insights from this study are vital for guiding clinical practice and public health strategies,” the authors stated. “Further research is needed to explore risk factors, intervention strategies, and address existing gaps in our understanding of mpox-related ocular complications.”
However, the researchers acknowledged variability in the presentation and documentation of these complications across studies, noting significant bias and heterogeneity in reported data, particularly regarding conjunctivitis and other ocular manifestations.
The findings reinforce the need for heightened clinical awareness and standardized guidelines to manage the ophthalmic effects of mpox effectively.
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