Neuro-ophthalmic complications of varicella-zoster virus

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This review broadly describes recent neuro-ophthalmic manifestations of varicella-zoster virus (VZV) reported in literature. RECENT FINDINGS: Despite varicella vaccination, the incidence of herpes zoster continues to rise, potentially leading to devastating consequences when ocular complications occur.A small but growing literature documents cases of retinal disease because of varicella reactivation after SARS-CoV-2 vaccination, ischemic optic neuropathy occurring during herpes zoster ophthalmicus, VZV-induced orbital apex syndrome, and immune-mediated ocular complications in patients with prior neuro-ophthalmic manifestations of VZV. SUMMARY: It is important for clinicians to keep abreast of the diverse neuro-ophthalmic manifestations of VZV as early diagnosis and treatment often lead to better visual outcomes.