Yes, tuberculosis (TB) can damage eyes.
TB affecting the eyes, known as ocular TB, can manifest in various ways and lead to significant vision problems. The most serious form is TB endophthalmitis.
Understanding TB Endophthalmitis
Any active TB lesion within the body can spread (seed) to the vitreous fluid inside the eye, leading to TB endophthalmitis. This condition is sight-threatening.
- Severity: Delay in diagnosis and treatment with appropriate anti-TB medications can result in substantial and permanent vision loss.
Other Ocular Manifestations of TB
While endophthalmitis is a major concern, TB can affect other parts of the eye as well, including:
- Uveitis: Inflammation of the uvea (the middle layer of the eye).
- Choroiditis: Inflammation of the choroid (the vascular layer of the eye).
- Retinal vasculitis: Inflammation of the blood vessels in the retina.
Importance of Early Diagnosis and Treatment
Early diagnosis and appropriate anti-TB therapy are crucial to prevent vision loss and manage ocular TB effectively. If you suspect you may have TB affecting your eyes, seek immediate medical attention from an ophthalmologist and a specialist in infectious diseases.
