Cytomegalovirus retinitis in persons with AIDS. Selecting therapy for a sight-threatening disease.

Almost one third of persons with AIDS acquire retinitis caused by the opportunistic cytomegalovirus (CMV). Both ganciclovir and foscarnet have been approved for treatment of CMV retinitis and are equally effective. However, their side effects are not the same, and each may have a different impact on the overall course of HIV infection and AIDS. The drug chosen should be administered promptly when sight-threatening disease is diagnosed to ensure maximal vision for the longest time.