Management of presumed trematode-induced granulomatous intermediate uveitis

To describe the surgical management of presumed trematode-induced granulomatous intermediate uveitis (PTIGIU) not responding to medical treatment in controlling the inflammation.

A prospective, interventional, single-center study in which patients with a history of fresh canal water contact and PTIGIU were enrolled. All patients underwent lensectomy-pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) and post-operative control of inflammation, functional and anatomical outcomes were assessed.

Fifteen eyes of 12 patients were included in the study with median age of 11.6 ± 4 yrs. Six months following lensectomy-PPV, inflammation was well controlled in all patients. The eyes were divided into two groups: Group A: 10 patients with an attached retina while Group B: 5 patients who were in the cicatricial stage with tractional retinal detachment. All patients in group A had CDVA of 20/40 or better, unlike patients in group B who failed to achieve a CDVA better than 20/70 throughout their follow-up. In group B, final anatomical success was achieved in only 40% with hypotony occurring in 20%.

PTIGIU is associated with the presence of ciliary body granuloma which, if left untreated, can lead to drastic outcomes. Early lensectomy-PPV represents a viable management option in cases resistant to medical treatment, with a favorable outcome.