Ocular TB in Western Australia

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Ocular tuberculosis (TB) is a rare but serious condition.
• Diagnosis and management can be challenging, especially in low-endemicity regions.
• This study examines ocular TB cases in Western Australia.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the diagnosis, management, and treatment outcomes of ocular TB in Western Australia.
• To highlight challenges in diagnosing ocular TB in a low-prevalence setting.
• To emphasize the importance of specialist collaboration.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective chart review of ocular TB cases in Western Australia (2007-2018).
• Inclusion criteria required a minimum 2-year follow-up post-anti-TB therapy (ATT).
• Analysis of patient demographics, clinical manifestations, treatment regimens, and outcomes.

Main Results:

• 34 patients met inclusion criteria; 97.1% were born overseas.
• Retinal vasculitis was the most common ocular TB manifestation (23.5%).
• 66.7% achieved full resolution of ocular inflammation with ATT; 12.1% experienced treatment failure. Gastrointestinal side effects were common (27.2%).

Conclusions:

• This is the first Australian study on ocular TB management.
• Diagnosing ocular TB in low-endemicity settings presents significant challenges.
• Collaboration between uveitis and TB subspecialists is crucial for optimal patient care.