DR. SWATI TYAGI

DR.HARINDER SINGH SETHI, DR.AMAN GAUR

Abstract

Introduction: Global impact of Covid-19 pandemic necessitates elucidation of complete spectrum of adverse reaction profile of vaccination, so that vulnerable high-risk groups can be managed prudently. We describe acute visual impairment after first dose of Covid19 vaccine.

Case: 32-year-old man presented with unilateral blurring of vision of left eye since 3 days. He denied flashes, pain or redness. A week prior, he received first dose of Covid19 vaccine. His vision was 20/20 by in right and 20/200 in left eye. In left eye, afferent pupillary defect, along with total blurring of all disc margins and edema of retinal layers with serous macular detachment was noted. Oral steroids resulted in rapid resolution of symptoms.

Discussion: Complex immunological mechanism of vaccines brings risk of immune-mediated adverse reactions. Direct invasion or autoimmune activation against optic nerve leads to vascular inflammation with secondary inflammation and edema in nerve fibre layer of retina.