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Mycophenolate mofetil therapy for sarcoidosis-associated uveitis
Pooja Bhat1, Rene A Cervantes-Castañeda, Priyanka P Doctor
1Massachusetts Eye Research and Surgery Institution, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, USA. fosters@uveitis.org
Ocular Immunology and Inflammation
|July 9, 2009
Summary
Mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) effectively controls ocular inflammation in sarcoidosis-associated uveitis. This immunosuppressant offers a steroid-sparing effect with manageable side effects, improving vision in patients.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Immunology
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Ocular inflammation in sarcoidosis, known as sarcoidosis-associated uveitis, presents a significant clinical challenge.
- Chronic inflammation can lead to vision loss and requires effective management strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the efficacy of mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) in controlling ocular inflammation.
- To evaluate the steroid-sparing potential of MMF in patients with sarcoidosis-associated uveitis.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective case series of patients diagnosed with sarcoidosis-associated uveitis treated with MMF.
- Data collected included MMF dosage, treatment duration, and observed side effects.
Main Results:
- Seven patients (14 eyes) with sarcoidosis-associated uveitis were treated with MMF for an average of 10 months.
- Ocular inflammation control was achieved in a mean of 6.7 weeks, with improved visual acuity in all eyes.
- Disease activity was maintained in 6 out of 7 patients, with a flare-up rate of 51.5 per 100 person-years.
Conclusions:
- Mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) demonstrates effectiveness in managing ocular inflammation associated with sarcoidosis.
- MMF provides a significant corticosteroid-sparing effect, reducing reliance on steroids.
- The treatment profile indicates a manageable side-effect profile for MMF in this patient population.
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