Abstract
Purpose::
To determine the efficacy and safety of mycophenolate mofetil in the treatment of chronic noninfectious scleritis.
Methods::
We conducted a retrospective chart review of all patients treated for scleritis between August 2001 and November 2006 at the Institute of Ophthalmology and Visual Science at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. Patients who were treated with mycophenolate mofetil were included in the study in order to assess the ability of mycophenolate mofetil to control inflammation and reduce steroid usage.
Results::
The 11 patients included in the study consisted of 10 females and 1 male with 7 patients already failing a course of another immunomodulatory drug before starting treatment with mycophenolate mofetil. Control of inflammation was achieved in 8 patients (73%), with 2 patients quiescent for 6 months or longer. The sparing of steroids was achieved in 7 patients (64%) with 3 patients not requiring any steroids. Visual acuity was maintained or improved in 91% of patients. Side effects leading to the discontinuation of mycophenolate mofetil occurred in 1 patient. There were no serious adverse reactions nor long-term morbidity or mortality caused by mycophenolate mofetil.
Conclusions::
Mycophenolate mofetil is an effective and well tolerated therapy which can reduce inflammation and decrease steroid usage in the treatment of chronic, noninfectious scleritis.
Keywords: sclera • autoimmune disease • inflammation