Comorbidity of uveitis and multiple sclerosis

The comorbidity of uveitis and multiple sclerosis (MS) is recognized but reported prevalence rates vary. We aimed to investigate the prevalence and characteristics of uveitis in people with multiple sclerosis (pwMS) in Finland by conducting a prospective screening study.

pwMS 18-60 years of age were identified from the Finnish MS registry in Tampere University Hospital, Finland. Identified pwMS who were capable of independently attend an ocular examination were invited for a comprehensive uveitis screening examination.

In total 22 of 344 (6 %) of pwMS had uveitis, of whom eight were newly diagnosed at screening examination with no ocular symptoms. The median age at diagnosis of uveitis was 38 years (range, 19 - 58). Uveitis was bilateral in 16 of 22 (73 %). Sixteen pwMS presented with intermediate uveitis and six had symptomatic anterior uveitis. Ocular complications were seen in 9 of 22 (41 %) of pwMS and uveitis. None of the pwMS with uveitis had been treated with tumor necrosis factor alpha inhibitors, known to increase the risk for MS.

Uveitis was newly diagnosed in 2 % of our cohort, whereas the overall comorbidity of uveitis in pwMS was 6 %. We recommend comprehensive eye examination performed by a uveitis specialist for pwMS with visual symptoms suggestive of uveitis.