Fornix triamcinolone injection for thyroid orbitopathy.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Thyroid orbitopathy is an autoimmune condition causing inflammation and eye complications.
• Active thyroid orbitopathy requires effective treatments to manage symptoms and prevent vision loss.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the efficacy of eyelid fornix triamcinolone injections in reducing clinical activity scores in patients with active thyroid orbitopathy.
• To evaluate the safety and side effects of this treatment modality.

Main Methods:

• A pilot study involving adult patients with active thyroid orbitopathy (Clinical Activity Score ≥ 3).
• Three upper and lower fornix injections of triamcinolone acetate (20 mg per injection) administered at 4-week intervals.
• Patients were followed for 6 months, with monthly assessments of clinical activity score and ultrasound measurements of extraocular muscle thickness.

Main Results:

• A significant reduction in clinical activity score from baseline (3.81 ± 1.80) to follow-up (0.63 ± 0.72) was observed (p < 0.0001).
• Ultrasound revealed a significant decrease in medial and lateral rectus muscle thickness.
• Lid retraction improved, and one patient experienced a transient increase in intraocular pressure managed with topical medication.

Conclusions:

• Eyelid fornix triamcinolone injections effectively reduce inflammatory activity in thyroid orbitopathy.
• This treatment is a simple, safe, and effective alternative to systemic corticosteroids, minimizing associated side effects.