[Anterior-segment indocyanine green angiography in the management of anterior scleritis].

PURPOSE: To assess the value of anterior segment indocyanine green (ICG) angiography for the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of anterior scleritis.

PATIENTS AND

METHODS

Anterior segment ICG angiography was performed in five patients presenting with diffuse or nodular scleritis. Angiographic findings before and after treatment were described with special emphasis on dye leakage, vessel abnormalities, and perfusion defects. A systemic medical workup (laboratory tests, imaging investigations, and systemic examination) was performed in all cases to rule out underlying systemic disease.

RESULTS

ICG leakage is a sign of vascular inflammation and reflects the severity of the disease. Intense vascular dilation and late ICG leakage can be observed in the anterior segment angiograms of patients with scleritis. Favorable response to treatment is associated with partial or total disappearance of these perfusion abnormalities.

CONCLUSION

Anterior segment ICG is a valuable tool for the evaluation and the follow-up of anterior scleritis. It may provide valuable information that is not clinically apparent, particularly a more precise assessment of the vasculitis.