Intraocular tuberculosis

Nicholas J Cutrufello1, Petros C Karakousis, Jane Fishler

  • 1Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA.

Intraocular manifestations of tuberculosis (TB) are rare, but TB infection is common worldwide, especially in developing economies, and in immigrant populations and immunocompromised patients in developed nations. The current review focuses on the clinical characteristics and diagnostic modalities useful in the diagnosis of intraocular TB. Specifically, IFN-gamma Release Assays (IGRAs), antigen-detection assays, and polymerase chain reactions will be discussed. Clinical management of TB patients includes counseling and testing for HIV infection. The use of corticosteroids along with anti-tuberculous medications and special therapeutic considerations in immunocompromised patients are discussed.

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