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Published on: December 17, 2021
Bilateral, simultaneous, uveitis-associated pupillary membranes.
1John J Pershing VAMC, Poplar Bluff, Missouri 63901, USA. paul.varner@va.gov
Clinical & Experimental Optometry
|April 13, 2011
Summary
This case report details the first instance of bilateral, simultaneous pupillary membranes caused by recurrent anterior uveitis in a patient with ankylosing spondylitis. Surgical intervention was required to restore vision.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Rheumatology
- Immunology
Background:
- Ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic inflammatory disease.
- Anterior uveitis is a common ocular manifestation of ankylosing spondylitis.
- Recurrent anterior uveitis can lead to complications such as pupillary membranes.
Observation:
- A 48-year-old man with ankylosing spondylitis and a history of recurrent anterior uveitis presented with decreased vision.
- Examination revealed bilateral inflammatory pupillary membranes.
- Standard anti-inflammatory and mydriatic treatments were ineffective.
Findings:
- The patient underwent surgical resection of the bilateral pupillary membranes.
- This is the first reported case of simultaneous, bilateral uveitis-associated pupillary membranes.
- Vision improved significantly after surgery and subsequent ophthalmic procedures.
Implications:
- Highlights a rare complication of recurrent anterior uveitis in ankylosing spondylitis.
- Emphasizes the potential need for surgical intervention when medical management fails.
- Suggests further research into the pathogenesis and management of uveitis-associated pupillary membranes.
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