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[Plasmapheresis and acute attacks of uveitis]
Ophtalmologie : Organe De La Societe Francaise D'Ophtalmologie
|January 1, 1989
Summary
Plasma exchange (PLEX) combined with immunosuppressants significantly improved vision and reduced inflammation in patients with chronic uveitis acute attacks. PLEX shows promise as an adjunctive therapy for challenging uveitis cases.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Immunology
- Nephrology
Context:
- Uveitis, particularly posterior or chronic total forms, presents significant treatment challenges.
- Standard therapies including corticosteroids and immunosuppressants may not always achieve desired outcomes.
- Acute attacks necessitate effective interventions to preserve visual function.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the efficacy of plasma exchange (PLEX) as an adjunctive treatment for acute attacks of posterior or total chronic uveitis.
- To assess the impact of PLEX on visual acuity and ocular inflammation in this patient cohort.
Summary:
- Ten patients with chronic uveitis acute attacks received 8 PLEX sessions over 2 weeks, alongside standard corticosteroid and immunosuppressive therapy.
- A significant improvement in visual acuity and a reduction in inflammatory activity were observed in 70% of patients immediately post-PLEX.
- PLEX demonstrated a positive therapeutic effect in the management of difficult-to-treat uveitis.
Impact:
- Plasma exchange emerges as a potentially valuable adjuvant therapy for severe or refractory uveitis cases.
- This approach may help mitigate vision loss and disease progression in patients with chronic inflammatory eye conditions.
- Further research can explore optimal PLEX protocols and long-term outcomes in uveitis management.