Which virus is associated with Pizza pie retinopathy?

Pizza pie retinopathy is specifically associated with Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection, particularly in individuals with compromised immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS. The term "pizza pie retinopathy" describes the characteristic appearance of the retinal lesions caused by CMV, which resemble the various toppings on a pizza. These lesions are the result of the virus infecting retinal cells, leading to necrosis and subsequent retinal detachment if not managed properly.

In immunocompetent individuals, CMV infections are often asymptomatic or mild; however, in those with weakened immune responses, CMV can cause significant ocular complications, including retinitis that manifests as pizza pie retinopathy. Recognizing this pattern is crucial for appropriate diagnosis and treatment, particularly in patients with HIV, where CMV pathology is linked to advanced immunosuppression. Thus, the connection between pizza pie retinopathy and CMV is well-established in the field of infectious diseases.