Anterior uveitis in children

Abstract

Uveitis can cause major visual disabilities in children. Anterior uveitis accounts for approximately one-third of all cases of uveitis. The most frequent associated condition is juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, and Masquerade syndrome should always be considered. Screening patients with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis for anterior uveitis is worthwhile. The first-line therapy for anterior uveitis is a steroid. The second-line therapy is an immuno- suppressive agent, among which methotrexate is the most commonly used. Cataract, as a complication of the disease or of steroid use, can be treated by surgery. How- ever, operating in an inflamed eye of a child requires extra care. Glaucoma is another complication of uveitis, and can be treated primarily with antiglaucoma eye drops; surgery may be considered. Band keratopathy is another complication that may be treated with surgery.