Colombian uveitis multicentric study (COL-UVEA), report 2: visual outcomes and clinical characteristics of ocular toxoplasmosis in Colombia

Abstract

Purpose : Ocular toxoplasmosis (OT) is a global cause of infectious uveitis. Understanding its characteristics and the factors influencing visual outcomes is of paramount importance. This study investigates OT's clinical features and visual outcomes in multiple Colombian reference centers, aiming to describe factors associated with visual impairment, complications, and blindness.

Methods : We analyzed patients' medical records with a confirmed diagnosis of OT from seven ophthalmological centers in Colombia. Statistical analyses included Fisher's exact test, t-test, Mann–Whitney, and Kruskal–Wallis variance analysis. Finally, a conditional logistic regression model assessed significant variables from the bivariate analysis to determine their independent association with visual impairment and blindness.

Results : 853 OT patients (431 females, 422 males) were included. The mean age was 38.3 ± 17.9 years. OT predominantly manifests as acute (56.5%), unilateral (79.25%), and non-granulomatous uveitis (77.84%). Five hundred twelve patients had visual impairment (60.02%), and 329 were blind (38.56%). The risk factors for visual impairment and blindness included patients at extreme ages— specifically pediatric cases (OR: 1.94; CI: 1.08 – 3.47; p = 0.025) and patients over 50 years (OR: 1.74; CI: 1.24 – 2.45; p = 0.001), panuveitis (OR: 6.45; CI: 2.77 – 17.71; p < 0.001), and bilateral involvement (OR: 1.69; CI: 1.17 – 2.43; p = 0.005).

Conclusions : The study shows that OT primarily presents as acute, unilateral, non-granulomatous uveitis and significantly impacts visual acuity. Key risk factors for severe visual impairment and blindness include age extremes, panuveitis, and bilateral involvement. These findings highlight the need for focused clinical management and early intervention in high-risk groups to prevent unfavorable visual outcomes.

This abstract was presented at the 2024 ARVO Annual Meeting, held in Seattle, WA, May 5-9, 2024.