The Effect of Anti-TNF-alpha on Refractory Uveitis

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To investigate the effects of Anti-TNF-alpha (infliximab, Remicade(R), Shering-Plough) on refractory uveitis. METHODS: A retrospective observational survey was conducted on 12 eyes of 10 patients with refractory uveitis. These patients had no response to immunosuppresants or systemic steroid therapy and were intolerable due to drug toxicity. After an intravenous injection of Anti-TNF-alpha, best corrected visulal acuity was measured. Improvement in inflammation was then observed at the first, third and last month of follow-up. RESULTS: Patients were observed for a mean period of 15 months. They received anti-TNF-alpha intravenously, ranging from one to eleven infusions. After infusion with Anti-TNF-alpha, remission of intraocular inflammation was evident in all patients within 9.7 days. Best corrected visual acuity also improved at the first, third, and last month of follow-up. Two patients were infected by tuberculosis and mumps respectively. CONCLUSIONS: There was an effect on refractory uveitis with anti-TNF-alpha therapy. Many participants may also require further evaluation after treatment.