Favorable visual outcome in cryptococcal meningitis

PURPOSE: To describe an unusual, favorable visual outcome in a patient with lupus erythematosus and cryptococcal meningitis and to present bilateral superior oblique muscle paresis. METHODS: Case report. A 15-year-old girl with lupus erythematosus and cryptococcal meningitis had bilateral superior oblique paresis, bilateral optic nerve head swelling, and increased intracranial pressure. She developed a visual acuity of no light perception in the right eye. RESULTS: Treatment with oral fluconazole, acetazolamide, and dexamethasone, as well as repeated lumbar punctures to reduce intracranial pressure, was followed by recovery to a visual acuity of 20/20 in both eyes and normal ocular motility. CONCLUSION: With appropriate treatment, visual loss associated with cryptococcal meningitis may have a favorable outcome.