Corneal endothelial deposits in children positive for human immunodeficiency virus receiving rifabutin prophylaxis for Mycobacterium avium complex bacteremia.

Purpose: To assess the potential ocular effects of prophylactic administration of rifabutin in children with symptomatic human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and CD4 counts less than 50 cells per mm3.

Methods: Twenty-five children with HIV infection were enrolled in a phase I-II study of prophylactic administration of systemic rifabutin for prevention of disseminated Mycobacterium avium complex infection and monitored prospectively for the development of ocular complications secondary to HIV infection or drug toxicity.

Results: The dose of rifabutin ranged from 5.0 mg to 15.0 mg per kg, and the median ophthalmic follow-up was 24 months. During the study period, six of the children receiving rifabutin prophylaxis for M. avium complex developed unusual bilateral, initially peripheral, stellate, corneal endothelial deposits without associated uveitis. Review of serial corneal drawings and photographs showed an increase in the number of corneal deposits with continued administration of rifabutin. The duration of rifabutin treatment (P = .017) and follow-up (P = .0011) was significantly longer in patients who developed these corneal endothelial changes.

Conclusion: Corneal endothelial deposits should be considered a potential side effect of rifabutin therapy. To date, these findings have not been sight threatening.