Infliximab for peripheral ulcerative keratitis treatment.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Immunology
• Rheumatology

Background:

• Peripheral ulcerative keratitis (PUK) is a severe inflammatory eye disease causing corneal thinning and potential vision loss.
• Macroulcerative PUK often indicates systemic vasculitis and can be resistant to conventional treatments like corticosteroids and immunosuppressants.
• Biologic agents, specifically anti-tumor necrosis factor-alpha (anti-TNFα) therapies, are considered for refractory cases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize existing reports on the use of infliximab in treating peripheral ulcerative keratitis.
• To evaluate the efficacy and safety profile of infliximab for PUK management.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of case reports and case series involving infliximab treatment for PUK.
• Analysis of reported outcomes, including efficacy and adverse events.

Main Results:

• Infliximab has been used in isolated cases and small series of PUK, often when other treatments failed.
• Data on the efficacy and safety of infliximab in PUK is based on limited clinical evidence.

Conclusions:

• Infliximab represents a therapeutic option for severe, treatment-resistant PUK.
• Further research is needed to establish definitive treatment guidelines for infliximab in PUK.