Abstract
Purpose:
Idiopathic Intermediate Uveitis (IIU) is a chronic intraocular inflammatory disorder, which affects over 10% of the uveitis population. This study aims to identify the long-term outcomes and complication rates for patients with IIU.
Methods:
A retrospective review of 100 patients from two regional uveitis centres with a follow-up of between 5 and 25 years. The main outcome measure was maintenance of best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) at 20/40 or better.
Results:
The average age at onset of IIU was 38 years (range 4 - 73 years) and 41% were male. Mean follow-up time was 12 years with 26 out of 100 patients having more than 20 years follow-up. Baseline BCVA was recorded after 3 months of treatment with 89% at 20/40 or better, this level of BCVA was maintained over the follow-up period with 82% at 20/40 or better after 5, 10 and 15 years. BCVA was 6/12 or better in 85% at 20 years and 80% after 25 years of follow-up. There was a significant correlation between baseline BCVA and the BCVA at final follow-up with 84% maintaining visual acuity of 20/40 or better (Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient = 0.502 (p<0.0001)).
Conclusions:
The visual prognosis for patients with IIU is good with 84% maintaining vision better than or equal to 20/40. Patients who present with visual acuity at this level can be reassured they have a reasonable chance of keeping it long term.
Keywords: 745 uvea •
462 clinical (human) or epidemiologic studies: outcomes/complications •
461 clinical (human) or epidemiologic studies: natural history