Study of clinical and aetiological pattern of anterior uveitis in middle Karnataka

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Uveitis, a complex intraocular inflammatory disease results from several aetiological entities. The cause of inflammation might be infectious agent or trauma, but in most cases the underlying mechanism appears to be autoimmune in nature. Anterior uveitis is most common form of uveitis and accounts for an annual incidence rate of about 17 cases/1,00,000 population. Objective of this study is to evaluate the aetiological pattern, treatment and its outcome and complications of anterior uveitis. Methods: A prospective clinical study was done in the Department of Ophthalmology, Karnataka during December 2012 to May 2014. All patients between 20 and 80 years of age clinically presenting with anterior uveitis were studied. A thorough clinical evaluation followed by investigations was done to determined aetiology. Patients were put on specific and nonspecific treatment and were followed up for a period of 6 months. Complications were noted. Results: The aetiology of uveitis remained unknown in most cases (42%). Most common cause was observed to be blunt trauma (20%) followed by phacolytic (12%). Most cases responded well to treatment. Commonest complication was posterior persistent synechiae (23.64%), and cataract was the second common (14.54%). Interpretation and Conclusion: Aetiological diagnosis remains undetermined in majority of cases. A thorough examination and investigation are required in each case to facilitate a final diagnosis. Prompt treatment ensures good visual outcome. Ocular morbidity is common in chronic and recurrent cases.