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Abstract #8250 Published in IGR 4-3
Detection of herpes simplex virus in pseudoexfoliation syndrome and exfoliation glaucoma
Detorakis ET; Kozobolis VP; Pallikaris IG; Spandidos DAActa Ophthalmologica Scandinavica 2002; 80: 612-616
PURPOSE: The pathogenesis of pseudoexfoliation syndrome (PEX) remains unknown. An infection, possibly viral, is one of the pathogenetic mechanisms proposed. This study examines the presence of herpes simplex virus (HSV) and varicella-zoster virus (VZV) in iris and anterior capsule specimens of PEX and non-PEX patients. METHODS: Iris and anterior capsule specimens were obtained from 64 patients with PEX (study group, SG) and 61 patients without PEX (control group, CG). The presence of HSV and VZV DNA was evaluated with a polymerase chain reaction (PCR). RESULTS: herpes simplex virus type I was detected significantly more often in iris specimens from the SG (13.79%), compared to those from the CG (1.75%). VZV DNA was not detected in any of the specimens examined. CONCLUSIONS: The results imply a possible relationship between HSV type I and PEX, although no etiological role of HSV infection in PEX pathogenesis could be established. The results also advocate against any association between VZV and PEX.
E.T. Detorakis, MD, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
Classification:
9.4.4.1 Exfoliation syndrome (Part of: 9 Clinical forms of glaucomas > 9.4 Glaucomas associated with other ocular and systemic disorders > 9.4.4 Glaucomas associated with disorders of the lens)
