Anterior Uveitis in an HLA-B27 Positive Patient Following Influenza Vaccination

To report a case of acute anterior uveitis occurring shortly after influenza vaccination in a patient with HLA-B27 positivity, highlighting the potential role of genetic susceptibility in vaccine-related ocular inflammation.

A 35-year-old Asian male experienced progressive unilateral ocular redness, pain, and blurred vision starting from three days after receiving the trivalent influenza vaccine. Ophthalmic examination afterwards demonstrated conjunctival injection, fine keratic precipitates, anterior chamber flare and cells, and posterior synechiae with normal intraocular pressure. Diagnostic workup was unremarkable except for HLA-B27 positivity. The patient was diagnosed with unilateral acute non-granulomatous anterior uveitis and successfully treated with topical corticosteroids and cycloplegics, with resolution of inflammation and no recurrence over six months of follow-up.

The index report highlights that HLA-B27 positive individuals may be particularly vulnerable to diverse systemic triggers, including vaccines.