Efficacy of adalimumab in chronic non-infectious anterior uveitis: a retrospective study

To evaluate the real-world efficacy and safety of adalimumab (ADA) combined with conventional therapy in patients with chronic non-infectious anterior uveitis (NIAU).

This retrospective cohort study included 114 patients with chronic NIAU treated at a single tertiary center between May 2022 and May 2025. Patients were divided into a study group receiving ADA plus conventional therapy (n = 58) and a control group receiving conventional therapy alone (n = 56). Anterior chamber (AC) cell count, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), treatment response, adjunctive therapy use, complications and adverse events were compared over 6 months. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to identify factors associated with complete remission.

At 3 and 6 months, the ADA group showed significantly lower AC cell counts and greater BCVA improvement than controls (all P < 0.05). At 6 months, complete remission was achieved in 84.5% of the ADA group versus 64.3% of controls, with lower relapse rates (13.8% vs. 28.6%, both P < 0.05). After adjustment, ADA use was independently associated with complete remission (adjusted OR = 2.85, 95% CI 1.15-7.05). The ADA group required less adjunctive corticosteroid and immunosuppressive therapy and had lower rates of cataract and ocular hypertension. Most adverse events were mild, with one serious infection leading to discontinuation.

In real-world practice, adalimumab combined with conventional therapy is associated with improved inflammation control, visual outcomes and reduced relapse in chronic NIAU, with an acceptable safety profile.