Recurrent and chronic anterior uveitis: Long-term outcome and treatment strategies.

PURPOSE

To study the long-term clinical outcome and treatment strategies of recurrent and chronic non-infectious anterior uveitis.

METHODS

Multicenter study of anterior uveitis patients from 2001 to 2022. Outcome measures included ocular complications, medical and surgical therapies, and visual acuity measured at the beginning of follow-up and at 1, 2, and 5 years thereafter.

RESULTS

In total, 76 patients were included, with a mean follow-up of 6.8 years. Idiopathic anterior uveitis was the most common etiology (56%). Immunomodulatory agents (IMAs) were used in almost half of the cohort. Early initiation of IMAs was associated with a lower risk of developing glaucoma ( P = 0.019). Mean best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) improved after 5 years in both groups. Early use of immunomodulation was correlated with a better visual outcome at 2 years ( P = 0.024).

CONCLUSION

Chronic and recurrent anterior uveitis were associated with greater risk than expected for ocular complications, surgeries, and vision impairment. Early initiation of immunomodulation should be strongly considered to improve clinical course and outcome.