Serological and polymerase chain reaction-based analysis of aqueous humour samples in patients with AIDS and necrotizing retinitis.

Objective: To evaluate the measurement of intraocular antibody production and detection of DNA by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for diagnosis of the causative microorganism in patients with AIDS and necrotizing retinitis.

Methods: Paired serum and aqueous humour samples obtained from 28 patients with AIDS and necrotizing retinitis, seen between January 1987 and March 1992, were analysed for intraocular antibody production against cytomegalovirus (CMV), varicella zoster virus, herpes simplex virus, Epstein-Barr virus, and Toxoplasma gondii. Specific antibody titres in the inflamed eye and in the circulation were related to total immunoglobulin G content in the aqueous humour and serum.