Uveitis and ophthalmoplegia complicating chickenpox

External ocular manifestations of chickenpox are not rare. These usually include affections of the eyelids, conjunctiva, and less commonly the cornea. Involvement of the internal parts of the eye and neuro-ophthalmological complications are extremely rare. These complications are summarized. The first case of uveitis was described by Hutchinson in 1889 - a case of bilateral uveitis which ended in bilateral phtisis bulbi. Two cases of unilateral uveitis which appeared in association with chickenpox are presented. In one of them internal ophthalmoplegia was seen. Possible pathogenic mechanisms are discussed. The unusual cycloplegia which was present in one case can be caused by viral lesion to the ciliary nerves.