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Intraocular inflammation in autoimmune diseases
Eran Pras1, Ron Neumann, Gisele Zandman-Goddard
1Department of Ophthalmology, Sapir Medical Center, Israel.
Seminars in Arthritis and Rheumatism
|December 21, 2004
Summary
Intraocular inflammation (IOI) is linked to autoimmune diseases in up to 40% of cases. Treatment involves immunosuppressive drugs, biologic agents, and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG).
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Immunology
- Rheumatology
Background:
- The uveal tract, the eye's vascular organ, facilitates immune cell entry, making it susceptible to intraocular inflammation (IOI).
- IOI is a more accurate term than uveitis for inflammatory processes not solely targeting uveal antigens.
- Autoimmune diseases frequently contribute to the development of IOI.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the prevalence of IOI in autoimmune diseases.
- To examine the immunopathogenic mechanisms underlying IOI.
- To outline current and emerging treatment strategies for IOI.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of English medical articles from 1984-2003.
- Utilized MEDLINE database with keywords: "uveitis," "intraocular inflammation," and "autoimmune diseases."
Main Results:
- Autoimmune diseases were identified in up to 40% of patients with IOI, including spondyloarthropathies, Behcet's disease, sarcoidosis, and others.
- Enhanced T-cell response is a key factor in the immunopathogenesis of IOI.
- Established treatment guidelines include corticosteroids and various immunosuppressive drugs; newer therapies include TNF inhibitors and IVIG.
Conclusions:
- Autoimmune conditions are a significant cause of intraocular inflammation, affecting up to 40% of patients.
- Treatment for IOI in autoimmune diseases relies on immunosuppressive drugs, biologic agents, and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG).