Abstract
Purpose: :
Vogt–Koyanagi–Harada (VKH) disease is known to have several manifestations in different ethnic groups. In order to analyze the clinical profile of VKH cases in Mexican population, we studied 50 consecutive cases of VKH disease treated in the Uvea Department at the "Instituto de Oftalmologia Conde de Valenciana" from September 2001 to November 2005.
Methods: :
Retrospective analysis and review of files of 50 consecutive VKH cases diagnosed in our clinic.
Results: :
Sex predilection was female, being 68% compared to males. Average age was 36.9 years (range 8–70). The age distribution at the first visit was as follows: 14% less than 20, 48% between 21 and 40, and 38% over 40 years. All cases were bilateral, so the total eye count was 100. Visual acuity at initial visit was: worst than counting fingers in 25%, from counting fingers to 20/400 in 19%, from 20/200 to 20/60 in 28% and better than 20/60 in 28%. Visual acuity at final visit was: worst than counting fingers in 21%, from counting fingers to 20/400 in 19%, from 20/200 to 20/60 in 19% and better than 20/60 in 41%. Regarding treatment, corticosteroid topical treatment was used in all patients, paraocular corticosteroid in 68 eyes (68%), intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide was needed in 5 eyes (5%). Systemic corticosteroid and immunosuppressive therapy were the most common forms of therapy, being used in 76% and 62% of the patients respectively. Major complications were cataract (44%) and ocular hypertension (62%). Glaucoma surgery was needed in 18 eyes (18%).
Conclusions: :
VKH disease is a frequent disease in Mexican population. Females are more affected than males. It affects individuals 20–40 years old. Corticosteroids are the mainstay of therapy, but other immunosuppressive therapies may be required. Cataract and glaucoma were major complications.
Keywords: clinical (human) or epidemiologic studies: biostatistics/epidemiology methodology • uvea • inflammation