Endoretinal biopsy in establishing the diagnosis of uveitis: a clinicopathologic report of three cases.

PURPOSE: To report the value of endoretinal biopsy in establishing the diagnosis of severe posterior uveitis.

METHODS

A clinicopathologic report of three patients with severe posterior uveitis unresponsive to corticosteroids and with a negative systemic workup. These patients subsequently underwent vitrectomy and endoretinal biopsy.

RESULTS

Endoretinal biopsy provided an accurate diagnosis in the three cases, leading to appropriate treatment. Histopathologic examination of the three retinal samples confirmed the diagnosis of sarcoidosis, tuberculosis, and lymphoma. Targeted treatment improved the ocular conditions in all three cases.

CONCLUSIONS

In selected cases of severe bilateral vision-threatening uveitis, retinal biopsy may be indicated as a last resort to confirm a suspected diagnosis of infectious disease or malignancy.