Herpes simplex virus DNA identification from aqueous fluid in Fuchs heterochromic iridocyclitis.
OBJECTIVE
To report the presence of herpes simplex virus DNA in the aqueous humor of an eye with Fuchs heterochromic iridocyclitis.


METHODS
In an eye with a clinical diagnosis of Fuchs heterochromic iridocyclitis, samples of aqueous humor and anterior capsule of the lens were obtained during cataract surgery. Polymerase chain reaction was performed on the samples to detect the presence of viral DNA including herpes simplex virus, varicella-zoster virus, and cytomegalovirus. Serologic analysis was also performed for antiviral immunoglobulins.


RESULTS
Herpes simplex virus DNA was identified in the aqueous humor but not in the anterior capsule. Serum immunoglobulin G was positive for herpes simplex virus, varicella-zoster virus, and cytomegalovirus.


CONCLUSIONS
The presence of herpes simplex virus DNA in the aqueous humor of an eye with Fuchs heterochromic iridocyclitis suggests that herpes simplex virus infection may play a role in the pathogenesis of Fuchs heterochromic iridocyclitis.
Barequet
I S
IS
The Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.
Li
Q
Q
Wang
Y
Y
O'Brien
T P
TP
Hooks
J J
JJ
Stark
W J
WJ
D000328:Adult; D000914:Antibodies, Viral / Q000097:blood; D001082:Aqueous Humor / Q000821:virology*; D015139:Blotting, Southern; D004279:DNA, Viral / Q000032:analysis*; D015828:Eye Infections, Viral / Q000276:immunology / Q000821:virology*; D006561:Herpes Simplex / Q000276:immunology / Q000821:virology*; D018259:Herpesvirus 1, Human / Q000235:genetics / Q000276:immunology / Q000302:isolation & purification*; D006801:Humans; D007074:Immunoglobulin G / Q000032:analysis; D015863:Iridocyclitis / Q000276:immunology / Q000821:virology*; D008297:Male
D000914:Antibodies, Viral; D004279:DNA, Viral; D007074:Immunoglobulin G