Neuro-ophthalmic complications of varicella-zoster virus

Abstract

Purpose of review This review broadly describes recent neuro-ophthalmic manifestations of varicella-zoster virus (VZV) reported in literature. Recent findings Despite varicella vaccination, the incidence of herpes zoster continues to rise, potentially leading to devastating consequences when ocular complications occur. A small but growing literature documents cases of retinal disease because of varicella reactivation after SARS-CoV-2 vaccination, ischemic optic neuropathy occurring during herpes zoster ophthalmicus, VZV-induced orbital apex syndrome, and immune-mediated ocular complications in patients with prior neuro-ophthalmic manifestations of VZV. Summary It is important for clinicians to keep abreast of the diverse neuro-ophthalmic manifestations of VZV as early diagnosis and treatment often lead to better visual outcomes.