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Pediatric Uveitis in a Well-Defined Population: Improved Outcomes with Immunosuppressive Therapy
David S Curragh1, Marie O'Neill1, Clara E McAvoy1
1a Department of Ophthalmology , Royal Victoria Hospital , Belfast, UK.
Insights
This study on pediatric uveitis in Northern Ireland found a mixed etiology, with juvenile idiopathic arthritis-associated uveitis being most common. Close monitoring helped most young patients maintain good vision.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Pediatric Rheumatology
Background:
- Pediatric uveitis is a significant cause of vision loss in children.
- Understanding the epidemiology and outcomes is crucial for effective management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence, causes, visual results, and complications of pediatric uveitis.
- To analyze data from a dedicated multidisciplinary uveitis clinic in Northern Ireland.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective chart review of pediatric uveitis patients (onset <16 years) from 2011-2015.
- Data collected included demographics, disease characteristics, treatments, visual acuity, and complications.
Main Results:
- 94 pediatric patients were included. Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis-associated uveitis (JIAU) was the leading cause (48%).
- Complications were present in 37% at presentation and 65% by final visit. Systemic treatments were used in 65% of cases.
- 92% of eyes achieved ≥ 6/12 visual acuity at a 5-year follow-up.
Conclusions:
- Pediatric uveitis in this cohort has a mixed etiology, with JIAU being predominant.
- Effective management and close monitoring allow most children to retain good vision.
Purpose:
The aim of this study is to assess the incidence, etiology, visual outcomes, and complication rates of pediatric uveitis patients at a dedicated multidisciplinary uveitis clinic in Northern Ireland.
Methods:
Data were collected from charts of all patients attending the clinic at the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust between 2011 and 2015. Demographics, disease characteristics, treatments, visual acuity, and complications were recorded.
Results:
There were 94 patients with uveitis onset before the age of 16 years. Etiology was mixed with JIAU the leading cause accounting for 48% of patients. Thirty-seven percent of patients had known complications at presentation and 65% by final visit. Systemic treatments were used in 65% of cases. Ninety-two percent of eyes had a final visual acuity ≥ 6/12 at a mean follow-up of 5 years.
Conclusions:
The etiology of uveitis in this pediatric population is mixed. With close monitoring, most patients maintain good vision.
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