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Spontaneous hyphema associated with anterior uveitis
1Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Boston, MA 02114.
The British Journal of Ophthalmology
|October 1, 1993
Summary
Hyphema, or blood in the anterior chamber, is rarely seen with anterior uveitis. This study reports five cases, suggesting conservative management is typically effective for these rare presentations.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Anterior uveitis is inflammation of the iris and ciliary body.
- Hyphema (anterior chamber hemorrhage) is an uncommon complication of uveitis.
Observation:
- Five cases of hyphema associated with distinct anterior uveitic entities were observed.
- These included Reiter's syndrome, juvenile chronic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, idiopathic anterior uveitis, and herpes simplex uveitis.
- Iris rubeosis and NSAID use were noted in some patients.
Findings:
- Hyphema is a rare finding in most forms of anterior uveitis, except for idiopathic non-granulomatous anterior uveitis.
- Hemorrhages occurred during periods of increased inflammation.
- Most hyphemas resolved spontaneously with conservative treatment.
Implications:
- Conservative medical management is generally sufficient for hyphema in anterior uveitis.
- This contrasts with the typical approach for hyphema from other causes.
- Further research into the specific mechanisms linking these conditions is warranted.