A Rare Case of Retinal Artery Occlusion in the Context of Mediterranean Spotted Fever

BACKGROUND: Mediterranean spotted fever is a zoonosis endemic in the Mediterranean region. The microorganism Rickettsia conorii is responsible for the disease due to its angiotropism for endothelial cells. It produces host cell necrosis, thrombosis, and organ dysfunction. Ophthalmologic manifestations are rare. FINDINGS: The authors describe the case of a 55-year-old female with Mediterranean spotted fever who developed localized retinal vasculitis with associated macular edema. Treatment with intravitreal triamcinolone allowed a significant recovery of visual acuity. CONCLUSION: Ophthalmological symptoms in these patients should be emphasized because there can be severe ocular complications with a potentially irreversible loss of visual acuity.