Mpox, Ocular Involvement, HIV, Pulmonary Tuberculosis: Case Report
- Recent case reports highlight a concerning trend: the co-occurrence of mpox (formerly known as monkeypox), Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), and pulmonary tuberculosis significantly elevates the risk of mortality.
- Two specific cases documented the advancement of ocular involvement - affecting the eyes - in patients co-infected with mpox, HIV, and tuberculosis.
- The observed high mortality rate underscores the critical need for heightened vigilance and proactive management strategies for individuals living with HIV and/or tuberculosis who may be exposed to...
Severe Outcomes Observed in Co-Infection of Mpox, HIV, adn Tuberculosis
Table of Contents
Published October 6, 2025
Complex Interactions Drive Increased Mortality
Recent case reports highlight a concerning trend: the co-occurrence of mpox (formerly known as monkeypox), Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), and pulmonary tuberculosis significantly elevates the risk of mortality. These cases demonstrate that individuals with compromised immune systems, particularly those with HIV, are especially vulnerable to severe complications when infected with mpox, and the presence of active tuberculosis further exacerbates this risk.
Case Studies Reveal Ocular Complications
Two specific cases documented the advancement of ocular involvement – affecting the eyes - in patients co-infected with mpox, HIV, and tuberculosis. This manifestation, while not always present in mpox infections, appears to be more frequent and severe in individuals with underlying immune deficiencies. The ocular symptoms observed included inflammation and potential vision impairment, contributing to the overall severity of the illness.
Immunocompromised Individuals at highest Risk
The observed high mortality rate underscores the critical need for heightened vigilance and proactive management strategies for individuals living with HIV and/or tuberculosis who may be exposed to mpox. early diagnosis and prompt treatment of all three conditions are essential to improving patient outcomes.Healthcare providers should be aware of the potential for these co-infections and consider comprehensive screening for all three pathogens in at-risk populations.
Implications for Public health
These findings emphasize the importance of continued public health efforts to control the spread of mpox, particularly among vulnerable populations. Strengthening HIV and tuberculosis prevention and treatment programs, alongside mpox vaccination initiatives, are crucial steps in mitigating the risk of these perilous co-infections. Further research is needed to fully understand the complex interplay between these three diseases and to develop targeted interventions.