Ocular findings in systemic lupus erythematosus

Systemic lupus erythematosus [SLE] is a chronic multisystem autoimmune disease. Ocular complications occur in up to one-third of patients with SLE. The ocular findings may represent the initial manifestation of the disease and may lead to severe ocular morbidity and loss of vision. Early diagnosis and prompt management of patients with SLE are mandatory and require collaboration between the ophthalmologist and the rheumatologist

Regression of peripapillary choroidal neovascular membrane in a patient with sarcoidosis after oral steroid therapy

Choroidal neovascular membrane [CNV] may occur in patients with posterior uveitis. Treatment of patients with corticosteroids induces regression of the inflammation in the posterior pole with downregulation of many cytokines including vascular endothelial growth factors. We report herewith, a case of biopsy proven sarcoidosis that developed posterior uveitis and peripapillary CNV membrane and subretinal hemorrhage with fluid. The patient was treated with systemic steroids. She demonstrated progressive regression of the CNV membrane and complete resolution of the subretinal hemorrhage and fluids. In conclusion, control of the posterior segment inflammation is crucial in the resolution of the CNV membrane in uveitis and the intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor may not be always indicated