Ocular manifestations in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: prevalence and relation to disease activity

ABSTRACT

This study aimed to investigate spectrum of ocular manifestations in systemic lupus erythematosus [SLE] patients and to clarify their relation to disease activity. Seventy female patients fulfilling the American College of Rheumatology [ACR] criteria for the diagnosis of SLE were enrolled in this study. Full medical history was taken with comprehensive clinical examination performed in all patients. Rheumatological laboratory investigations were done. Disease activity was assessed using Systemic Lupus Activity Measure [SLAM] index. Full ophthalmic examination was done including assessment of the lacrimal function and fundus examination. Fundus photography and fluorescein angiography were done for patients with evident or suspected posterior segment manifestations. From the results obtained, it was concluded that ocular manifestations are common with SLE. Although most ocular affection in SLE is relatively benign, sight-threatening complications are not rare. Visual compromise is usually related to retinal or optic nerve involvement and both are strongly correlated with the systemic disease activity. Therefore, early recognition of SLE ophthalmic manifestations and timely institution of systemic therapy may minimize visual morbidity. In a similar vein, documented SLE eye affection may guide the rheumatologist to either disease reactivation or systemic drug-related complications