Successful resolution of dengue-associated retinopathy following intravitreal Anti-VEGF therapy

Abstract

Dengue fever (DF) is primarily recognized for its systemic manifestations; however, ocular involvement remains uncommon and is often overlooked. Dengue-associated retinopathy, a rare manifestation with poorly understood pathophysiological mechanisms, presents both diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. Although most patients recover spontaneously, some experience persistent visual impairment. We report a case of dengue-associated retinopathy with ischemic macular edema that progressed over 2 months following a diagnosis of DF. Owing to its ischemic nature and the patient's relative contraindications to intravitreal and systemic corticosteroids, intravitreal anti–vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) therapy was administered, leading to the resolution of macular edema and improvement in visual function. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case demonstrating successful resolution of dengue-associated retinopathy with intravitreal anti-VEGF therapy. These findings suggest that anti-VEGF therapy may serve as an alternative treatment option for dengue-related ocular complications.