The safety and efficacy of chicken type II collagen on uveitis associated with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis.

PURPOSE: To investigate the safety and efficacy of chicken type II collagen in treating uveitis associated with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA).

METHODS

A prospective dose-ranging (60 and 540 microg) pilot study of orally administered chicken type II collagen in 13 participants, aged 2-18 years, with JRA and uveitis and without prior exposure to collagens. Anterior chamber cells, flare, vitreous haze, visual acuity, and concomitant anti-inflammatory medications were the ophthalmic outcomes. Arthritis outcomes included the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) core set.

RESULTS

No serious or related adverse events were reported. Four participants (2 low dose, 2 high dose) experienced improvement in ophthalmic outcome, while two participants (1 in each group) worsened (p > 0.5). According to ACR criteria, six participants showed improvement in JRA.

CONCLUSIONS

Although appearing safe, clearly demonstrating the efficacy of this treatment for JRA or uveitis remains a challenge. Based on the results from this pilot study, a large positive treatment effect on uveitis is unlikely.