Ocular posterior segment complications following COVID-19 vaccination

Abstract

Background: The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has had a significant impact on healthcare, including eye care, worldwide. Effective and safe vaccines have been developed using both conventional and novel technologies to combat SARS-CoV-2 infection. While vaccination has been shown to be remarkably effective in reducing the spread and associated morbidity and mortality of COVID-19 disease, there have been reports of complications to the posterior segment of the eye.

Methods: We present a case-based analysis of reported complications of COVID-19 vaccination to the posterior segment of the eye. The study aims to highlight the diversity of possible complications and discuss the plausible involved pathophysiologic mechanisms.

Results: The most significant complications reported were retinal macro or microvascular occlusions, uveitis, and central serous chorioretinopathy. These complications are rare but require prompt diagnosis and management to prevent serious visual morbidity.

Conclusions: Our study highlights the need for ophthalmologists to be aware of possible complications related to COVID-19 vaccination and the importance of prompt diagnosis and management. The findings of this study may help ophthalmologists to better understand and manage these rare complications.

Keywords: COVID-19; Choroid; Complication; Posterior segment; Retina; Vaccine.