Virus-induced diseases of the eye: the role of herpesviruses in retinitis.

The herpesviruses are now recognized as major causes of acute retinitis, principally in the immunocompromised host, but also in otherwise healthy people. Clinical and laboratory features can help determine which herpesvirus is likely to be involved, and disease due to certain types can be treated successfully. Herpes ocular infection is a field of active laboratory research.