Uveitis and Posterior Ophthalmic Manifestations Following the SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Vaccine

Ocul Immunol Inflamm. 2022 Jul;30(5):1142-1148. doi: 10.1080/09273948.2022.2079533. Epub 2022 Jun 28.

Abstract

Purpose: To present four cases of posterior ophthalmic manifestations associated with a temporal relationship to SARS-CoV-2 vaccination.

Methods: Retrospective case series with a review of clinical findings.

Results: Four patients presented with various posterior ophthalmic findings including uveitis, maculopathy, and optic neuropathy. Each of their clinical courses varied in terms of ophthalmic imaging and exam findings.

Conclusion: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has ushered in a new wave of challenges to healthcare, epidemiological endeavors, and widespread vaccination efforts. Novel vaccines have been developed for the SARS-CoV-2 virus, including both mRNA and viral vector-based platforms. The ocular manifestations and side effects related to the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine is not well established or understood. There may be an association between vaccination and posterior ophthalmic manifestations.

Keywords: COVID-19; Coronavirus; inflammation; mRNA; maculopathy; optic neuropathy; pandemic; uveitis; vaccination; viral.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • COVID-19 Vaccines* / adverse effects
  • COVID-19*
  • Humans
  • RNA, Messenger
  • Retrospective Studies
  • SARS-CoV-2
  • Uveitis* / chemically induced
  • Uveitis* / diagnosis
  • Vaccination
  • Viral Vaccines

Substances

  • COVID-19 Vaccines
  • RNA, Messenger
  • Viral Vaccines