Advances in the treatment of intermediate and posterior uveitis

Abstract

Owing to the propensity for visual loss, immunosuppressive treatment in the form of systemic and/or local therapy is often required for the management of noninfective intermediate and posterior uveitis. Systemic corticosteroids are often used initially as they are fast acting, potent and inexpensive. However, other agents may be introduced, either owing to a lack of response to the steroids or to reduce the amount of corticosteroid required. This review explores new therapeutic options and will therefore concentrate on newer steroid-sparing immunosuppressives – the antimetabolite mycophenolate mofetil and biological agents, such as infliximab and interferon) – and on local therapy, such as intravitreal injections and implants). Well-conducted, randomized clinical trials are still required to confirm their benefit.

Keywords::

• adalimumab
• anti-VEGF
• bevacizumab
• etanercept
• fluocinolone
• infliximab
• interferon
• mycophenolate mofetil
• triamcinolone
• uveitis

Financial & competing interests disclosure

Carlos Pavesio has received unrestricted grants from Bausch & Lomb and Pfiser for research; and travel grants from Bausch & Lomb. The authors have no other relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript apart from those disclosed.

No writing assistance was utilized in the production of this manuscript.