Clinical patterns of Uveitis in a Regional Eye Institute of North India

Abstract

Background: Uveitis encompasses many conditions, all characterized by inflammation of the uveal tract either directly or indirectly. It can occur at any age but predominantly affects patients in the working-age group.

Objective: To report the clinical pattern of Uveitis in North India.

Settings and Design: A prospective study in a regional eye institute.

Methods: After taking informed consent, 100 patients with Uveitis aged 20–60 years were recruited from eye OPD between 2012- 2014. Detailed history, complete ophthalmic examination, standard diagnostic laboratory tests and radiographic studies wherever required were made.

Statistical analysis used: Descriptive.

Results: The mean age being 41.55 years. There were 57% males and 43% females with 32% acute uveitis and 68% chronic uveitis cases. Anterior Uveitis was seen in 83% of patients, followed by posterior Uveitis (7%), pan-uveitis (6%) and intermediate Uveitis (4%). A definite association with the systemic disease was determined in 27% of cases. The most frequently observed systemic diseases were ankylosing spondylitis, Tuberculosis and herpes zoster ophthalmicus (6% cases each). This was followed by HIV (3%), sarcoidosis (3%), ulcerative colitis (2%) and endophthalmitis (1%). No specific aetiology or association with systemic diseases could be established in 73% of cases. In most cases, the systemic disease was not suspected before eye involvement and was recognized only after the subsequent diagnostic procedures.

Conclusion: The etiological diagnosis of Uveitis is often challenging as there are marked variations in ocular and systemic signs and symptoms. A significant number of cases may unfold with the evolution of advanced techniques.