Infection of the light-sensitive layer (retina) at the back of the eye with cytomegalovirus (CMV). CMV infection usually produces no symptoms, except in people with compromised immune systems. Cytomegalic viral retinitis (also called cytomegalovirus retinitis) occurs in approximately one of every four people with AIDS and may lead to blindness. Symptoms include floaters (small, moving shapes in the visual field), impaired vision, blind spots, and loss of vision to the sides. Treatment is difficult, since antiviral medications stop the virus from reproducing but do not destroy it. Recently, intraocular injections and implants with antiviral drugs have shown great benefit without the side effects of systemic drugs. Isolation of persons undergoing immunosuppression or chemotherapy can be an effective measure to prevent CMV infection at the time of greatest vulnerability.