Basic parameters of thrombophilia in ocular Behçet disease with posterior segment involvement

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Hematology
• Immunology

Background:

• Ocular Behçet disease (BD) is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the posterior segment of the eye.
• Thrombophilia, an increased tendency to form blood clots, may play a role in the pathogenesis of ocular BD.
• Understanding thrombophilic parameters can offer insights into disease mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate basic thrombophilic parameters in patients with ocular BD involving the posterior segment.
• To compare these parameters during active and inactive disease phases.
• To contrast thrombophilic profiles in ocular BD patients with those of healthy controls.

Main Methods:

• A cohort study involving 30 patients in the active phase of ocular BD, 30 in the inactive phase, and 30 healthy controls.
• Measurement of plasma protein C, free protein S, antithrombin III, and activated protein C resistance.
• Statistical comparison of thrombophilic parameters across the three groups.

Main Results:

• Significantly altered levels of activated protein C resistance and antithrombin III were observed in both active and inactive ocular BD patients compared to controls (p<0.05).
• No significant differences were found in protein C and free protein S levels between ocular BD patients and controls (p>0.05).
• No significant variations in any tested thrombophilic parameters were detected between the active and inactive ocular BD groups (p>0.05).

Conclusions:

• Elevated activated protein C resistance and increased antithrombin III plasma levels are associated with posterior segment involvement in ocular BD.
• These findings suggest a thrombophilic tendency in ocular BD, particularly concerning posterior segment inflammation.
• Basic thrombophilic tests can aid in understanding the pathophysiology of ocular BD.