Cataracts and uveitis

To describe recent evidence from the literature regarding cataract surgery and lens implantation in patients with uveitis.

Most uveitic patients enjoy good vision despite potentially sight-threatening complications, including cataract development. In those patients who develop cataracts, successful surgery stems from educated patient selection, careful surgical technique, and aggressive preoperative and postoperative control of inflammation. Although commonly accepted in the adult patient population, recent investigations reflect the increased tolerance for primary intraocular lens placement in the pediatric cohort. The role of absolute control of inflammation continues with greater focus on immunomodulatory therapies. However, these agents bear their own side effect and complication profiles, including recent evidence of increased mortality. As a result, localized treatment with not only these agents but also with corticosteroids offers a potential balance.

Cataract extraction with intraocular lens implantation in the setting of meticulous control of inflammation can optimize visual outcome in adults and children with uveitis.