Failure of argon laser to halt cytomegalovirus retinitis.

This report describes the experience with Argon laser used in an attempt to slow the advance of CMV retinitis in two eyes of two patients with AIDS, who were not able to be treated with antiviral chemotherapy. The treatment was performed to create a retinal scar to attempt to slow cell-to-cell spread of the virus through retinal tissue. In both patients, treatment was not successful in preventing spread of the CMV infection. Foci of retinitis, beyond the treated areas, became apparent within 2 weeks of treatment. Autopsy histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of CMV retinitis in both patients and necrosis due to CMV retinitis was seen in laser treated retina, and on both sides of laser treated retina.