Deflazacort in the treatment of uveitis: a comparative study versus prednisone.

Since corticosteroids represent a fundamental tool in the treatment of uveitis, we evaluate the clinical efficacy and possible appearance of side effects of deflazacort, a new corticosteroid of third generation, versus prednisone at equiactive dosages. Sixty six patients suffering from recurring acute anterior uveitis (RAAU) and/or chronic anterior uveitis (CAU) were treated with deflazacort or alternatively prednisone in an "open" study. Clinical efficacy, ophthalmological parameters and haemato-bioassays were evaluated on admission and during the treatment period. All patients showed a complete remission of clinical signs and symptoms with both treatment and no statistically significant difference was evidenced between the studied groups. Concerning the possible appearance of side effects, the comparison between deflazacort and prednisone a statistically significant difference. These preliminary results are strongly encouraging and suggest further controlled studies on the employment of deflazacort in the treatment of uveitis.