[Preference for transscleral cryocoagulation of peripheral exudate in intermediate ubitis before traditional methods of treatment].

The term intermediate uveitis (IU) describes an anatomic distribution of ocular inflammation rather than a distinct clinicopathologic condition and includes pars planitis, chronic posterior cyclitis and peripheral uveitis. In the treatment of IU corticosteroids and cytostatic agents are of value but since the disease tends to have a long course they produce perminant side effects. Especially this therapy is undesirable in children. In some patients immunosuppressive therapy is not effective, particularly with peripheral neovascularization. Cryotherapy performed in 11 patients (16 eyes, 5 men, 6 women, mean age 22.9 +/- 8.1 years) with IU controlled inflammation during 13-37 months and prevented vitreous hemorrhage.