Post-streptococcal uveitis syndrome in a Caucasian population: a case series

Uveitis is an uncommon manifestation of post-streptococcal syndrome (PSUS). Despite reports, the condition is often not well recognised. The purpose of this study is to report a case series of children with post-streptococcal uveitis.

In this retrospective case series, all cases of PSUS were identified from all new paediatric patients diagnosed with uveitis over a 6-year period. Diagnosis of PSUS was based on the following diagnostic criteria: unilateral or bilateral uveitis with positive anti-streptolysin O titres (ASOT) or anti-deoxyribonuclease (anti-DNase) titres, and negative routine investigations for other causes of uveitis.

Eleven Caucasian paediatric patients were diagnosed with PSUS. One had a novel finding of peripheral corneal endotheliopathy, 73% of patients presented in spring or winter months and 88% of eyes had a final VA of better than or equal to 6/12 at a mean follow-up of 22 months. Systemic immunosuppressant treatment was used in 36% of patients. Adalimumab was used in 18% of patient's refractory to other treatment.

We report on the largest consecutive series of Caucasian patients under 16 years of age with PSUS. We have demonstrated a seasonal preponderance with presentation typically in winter or spring. We report a novel finding of corneal endotheliopathy in one of our PSUS patients. We also report on the benefit of adalimumab in the management of severe cases of PSUS; use of biologics in this particular cohort of uveitis patients has not previously been reported. With aggressive treatment our patients achieved good visual outcomes comparable to other published series.