Toxoplasma Retinochoroiditis Following Intravitreal Dexamethasone Implant Injection for Diabetic Macular Edema: A Rare Complication

Purpose: To report a case of ocular toxoplasmosis as a rare complication of intravitreal dexamethasone implant in a case of diabetic macular edema. Methods: A 56 years old male, a known case of Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy, received intravitreal dexamethasone implant for diabetic macular edema in left eye. He developed toxoplasma retinochoroiditis involving the macula with further diminution of vision in his left eye 3 weeks after the injection. His serum titres were positive for Toxoplasma IgG (161 IU/ml). He was treated with oral Sulfamethoxazole 800 mg + Trimethoprim 160 mg 12 hourly for 4 weeks. Results: The visual acuity in left eye improved with resolution of retinochoroiditis after the course of antibiotic therapy. Conclusion: It is imperative to follow-up closely after intravitreal steroid implantation, to look for the possible rare complication of infectious retinitis/retinochoroiditis, as timely antimicrobial treatment can lead to a good visual outcome.

Automated summary

A case of ocular toxoplasmosis as a rare complication of intravitreal dexamethasone implant in a patient with diabetic macular edema is reported. The patient developed toxoplasma retinochoroiditis involving the macula 3 weeks after the injection, but his vision improved after antibiotic treatment.