Visual Morbidity and Outcomes of Scleritis Associated with Intraocular Inflammation Compared to Isolated Scleritis

To compare visual outcomes, ocular complications and therapies for patients with scleritis-associated intraocular inflammation (SAI) and patients with isolated scleritis (IS).

A total of 52 patients (36 with SAI and 16 with IS) were reviewed. Mean age (standard deviation) at presentation was 48.4 years old (± 15.4) in the SAI group and 53 years old (± 17.1) in the IS group (p = .37). Visual acuity was worse at presentation and last visit for patients with SAI compared to IS (p = .04). Patients in the SAI group developed greater posterior segment complications than in the IS group (p = .002).

Scleritis with intraocular inflammation was associated with a higher rate of visual morbidity compared to isolated scleritis. More aggressive management strategies may be needed for patients who present with scleritis associated with inflammation.