A Review of Monkeypox Ocular Manifestations and Complications: Insights for the 2022 Outbreak

Monkeypox (MPVX) infection has been associated with multiorgan presentations. Thus, monkeypox infection’s early and late complications are of particular concern, prompting health systems to decipher threatening sequels and their possible countermeasures. The current article will review the clinical signs and symptoms of the present and former outbreaks, differential diagnoses, workup and treatment of the ocular manifestations of MPXV infection in detail. One of the uncommon yet considerable MPXV complications is ocular involvement. These injuries are classified as (1) more frequent and benign lesions and (2) less common and vision-threatening sequels. Conjunctivitis, blepharitis and photophobia are the most uncomplicated reported presentations. Moreover, MPXV can manifest as eye redness, frontal headache, orbital and peri-ocular rashes, lacrimation and ocular discharge, subconjunctival nodules and, less frequently, as keratitis, corneal ulceration, opacification, perforation and blindness. The ocular manifestations have been less frequent and arguably less severe within the current outbreak. Despite the possibility of underestimation, the emerging evidence from observational investigations documented rates of around 1% for ocular involvement in the current outbreak compared to a 9–23% incidence in previous outbreaks in the endemic countries. The history of smallpox immunization is a protective factor against these complications. Despite a lack of definite and established treatment, simple therapies like regular lubrication and prophylactic use of topical antibiotics may be considered for MPXV ocular complications. Timely administration of specific antivirals may also be effective in severe cases. Monkeypox usually has mild to moderate severity and a self-limited course. However, timely recognition and proper management of the disease could reduce the risk of permanent ocular sequelae and disease morbidity.