Long-Term Efficacy of Pegylated Interferon Alpha-2b in Behçet’s Uveitis: A Small Case Series

ABSTRACT

Purpose: To assess the long-term efficacy and safety of pegylated interferon alpha-2b (peg-IFN-α-2b) for severe uveitis associated with Behçet’s disease.

Methods: Peg-IFN-α-2b was administrated at an initial dosage of 0,5–1,5 µg/kg/week. If any complications were observed, the dosage was tapered. Ocular examinations, systemic findings, and treatment compliance of the patients were evaluated.

Results: Control of ocular inflammation was achieved in all patients (n = 4). The average increase in visual acuity after drug administration of 0,425 ± 0,125 logMAR was not statistically significant (Wilcoxon Test, p = 0,066) due to small number of cases. Any side-effects with laboratory abnormalities returned to baseline levels with reduction of the doses. Due to less frequent injections, increased satisfaction of the patients was noted.

Conclusions: This series highlights the peg-IFN-α-2b administration in Behçet’s uveitis. Peg-IFN-α-2b has a potential long-term therapeutic effect for the treatment of severe uveitis. Efficacy with a reduced number of injections improved the quality of Behçet patients’ lives.

Keywords:

• Behçet’s uveitis
• interferon therapy
• pegylated interferon alpha-2b
• treatment
• uveitis

Declaration of Interest

The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.