Survey of expert practice and perceptions of the supporting clinical evidence for the management of uveitis-related cataract and cystoid macular oedema.

PURPOSE

To survey the practice of uveitis experts in the management of uveitic cataract and cystoid macular oedema (CMO).

METHODS

A structured questionnaire containing two clinical scenarios was sent to members of the International Uveitis Study Group (IUSG). The questionnaire surveyed both respondents' current practice and their perception of the supporting clinical evidence.

RESULTS

For uveitic cataract, 70% required a 3-month inflammation-free period before surgery, and 76% gave a prophylactic preoperative systemic corticosteroid. For uveitic CMO, 87% gave corticosteroids, usually orally. Preferred second-line agents were methotrexate (39%), cyclosporin (24%), azathioprine (17%), and mycophenolate (7%). Respondents suggested the evidence underlying their decisions was either absent or relatively weak (levels III or IV), and in most cases personal experience was a factor.

CONCLUSIONS

This survey highlights areas of consensus and variation among uveitis experts in managing uveitic cataract and CMO, and emphasizes the need for further clinical trials to establish the best practice.