Peripapillary atrophy and CNVM are possible effects of Histoplasmosis.

Peripapillary atrophy and CNVM are possible effects of Histoplasmosis.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Only in toxoplasmosis
• D. Not associated with histoplasmosis

Answer: (A)

Peripapillary atrophy and choroidal neovascular membrane (CNVM) can occur as part of ocular histoplasmosis syndrome. In regions where Histoplasma capsulatum exposure is common, this infection can leave punched-out chorioretinal scars in the midperiphery and atrophy around the optic nerve. These scars and surrounding tissue are associated with disruption of Bruch’s membrane, which can trigger CNV. CNV is a major vision-threatening complication because it can leak or bleed under the retina, especially near the macula, leading to central vision loss. Treating CNV with intravitreal anti-VEGF injections is commonly effective, while peripapillary atrophy is a structural finding rather than a targetable lesion. This pattern—peripapillary atrophy plus CNVM—fits ocular histoplasmosis syndrome and is not a typical feature of toxoplasmosis.

Peripapillary atrophy and choroidal neovascular membrane (CNVM) can occur as part of ocular histoplasmosis syndrome. In regions where Histoplasma capsulatum exposure is common, this infection can leave punched-out chorioretinal scars in the midperiphery and atrophy around the optic nerve. These scars and surrounding tissue are associated with disruption of Bruch’s membrane, which can trigger CNV. CNV is a major vision-threatening complication because it can leak or bleed under the retina, especially near the macula, leading to central vision loss. Treating CNV with intravitreal anti-VEGF injections is commonly effective, while peripapillary atrophy is a structural finding rather than a targetable lesion. This pattern—peripapillary atrophy plus CNVM—fits ocular histoplasmosis syndrome and is not a typical feature of toxoplasmosis.