Longitudinal study of anterior segment inflammation by ultrasound biomicroscopy in patients with acute anterior uveitis.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to investigate dynamic changes in the anterior segment in patients with acute anterior uveitis (AAU) using ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM).

METHODS

Acute anterior uveitis was diagnosed in 18 patients according to history and ocular examinations. Ultrasound biomicroscopy was performed and the results at three time-points (within 2 weeks of the uveitis attack, and at 2-4 weeks and 6 weeks after it) were analysed. The relationships between clinical manifestations and UBM findings were also evaluated.

RESULTS

All investigated AAU patients showed severe ciliary injection, numerous dust keratic precipitates (KPs), aqueous flare and inflammatory cells, and were treated predominantly with corticosteroid and cycloplegic eyedrops. Ultrasound biomicroscopy showed a large number of cells in the anterior and posterior chamber, marked oedema and exudates in and around the iris and ciliary body within 2 weeks of AAU onset. These abnormalities were dramatically improved at 2-4 weeks and almost resolved at 6 weeks and thereafter.

CONCLUSIONS

Ultrasound biomicroscopy reveals severe inflammatory changes in and around the ciliary body in patients with AAU. These signs rapidly resolve upon treatment.