Using Smartphone Chatbot for Postoperative Care after Intravitreal Injection during COVID-19 Period: A Retrospective Cohort Study.

BACKGROUND: During COVID-19 pandemic period, it was difficult for the patients regular and scheduled follow-up in outpatient department, especially when lock-down. However, early detection of patients with initial infection or other serious conditions after ocular surgeries, such as intravitreous injection (IVI) for age-related macular degeneration (AMD). OBJECTIVE: We accessed a postoperative care chatbot system (PCCS) in smartphone for patients to self-report postoperative symptoms/signs with an instant bidirectional feedback system. METHODS: During the COVID-19 level 3 epidemic alert in July 2021 in Taiwan, the PCCS alerted the patient to report and grade six ocular symptoms/signs associated with ocular inflammation or retinal detachment. Patients used the PCCS for 7 days postoperatively to assess their symptoms/signs per day after receiving an alert. The data automatically collected using a cloud computer system judged the grade and sent messages to medical staff for further medical assistance. User's satisfaction questionnaire was collected on the 7th day. RESULTS: One hundred and eighty-five patients participated in this study. There were 26 reports (3.03%) of symptom grade deterioration (increased blurred vision, eye swelling, nausea, and floater/flash) in 12 patients (6.5%). No gender difference for the earlier medical consultation. One case occurred endophthalmitis and improved after 2 times prompt IVI antibiotics. 87% of patients were satisfied or very satisfied to communicate their symptoms instantly with the app, willing to use it again and considered it could improve quality of care. The incidence of earlier medical consultation is 3.8% (7/185) and the incidence of endophthalmitis is 0.5% (1/185). CONCLUSIONS: The chatbot system, designed for self-reporting postoperative symptoms and providing instant bidirectional feedback on smartphones, could be beneficial for enhancing early medical consultation without gender differences in AMD patients who receiving intravitreal injections. It achieves satisfactory response from patients.

Femtosecond laser-assisted astigmatic keratotomy versus toric IOL implantation for correcting astigmatism in cataract patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis with trial sequential analysis.

AIMS: To compare the refractive and visual outcomes of femtosecond laser-assisted astigmatic keratotomy (FSAK) and toric intraocular lens (IOL) implantation for correcting astigmatism in cataract patients. METHODS: Studies were retrieved from the Ovid-Medline, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and Scopus which compared FSAK and toric IOL for astigmatism correction in cataract patients. Outcome measures included postoperative refractive cylinder, correction index, uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA), the proportion of patients achieving a residual refractive cylinder of 1.00 dioptre or less, target-induced astigmatism (TIA) and surgically induced astigmatism (SIA). The trial sequential analysis (TSA) was used to collect firm evidence supporting our conclusion. RESULTS: 9 studies encompassing 590 participants were analysed. The meta-analysis revealed that toric IOLs could result in less postoperative refractive cylinder and provide better UDVA compared with FSAK. The TSA disclosed strong evidence of lower postoperative refractive cylinder in the toric IOL group compared with that of the FSAK group. FSAK showed a smaller correction index and lower mean TIA and SIA compared with toric IOLs. CONCLUSIONS: For cataract patients, both FSAK and toric IOLs are effective methods for correcting astigmatism. However, toric IOLs offer less postoperative astigmatism and result in better postoperative UDVA compared with FSAK. In vector analysis of astigmatism, toric IOLs can also produce higher TIA and SIA. Additionally, neither method is associated with severe untreatable complications. Therefore, the conclusion is that toric IOLs are the preferred choice for astigmatism correction in cataract patients and FSAK serves as a viable alternative when toric IOLs are contraindicated.

Investigating the Association of Polygenic Risk Scores With Thyroid Cancer Susceptibility in a Han Chinese Population.

Background: Thyroid cancer, the leading endocrine tumor with a rising global incidence, especially in women, is influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. This study examines the relationship between polygenic risk scores (PRS) and thyroid cancer susceptibility in the Han Chinese population, as well as the impact of genetic variants on clinical outcomes. Methods: Analyzing data from 57 257 participants in the Taiwan Precision Medicine Initiative, the study employed the Affymetrix Genome-Wide TWB 2.0 SNP Array for genotyping. PRS were calculated using single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from prior genome-wide association studies, specifically PGS000087 and PGS000797, and correlated with clinical parameters like age, sex, comorbidities, and treatment methods. Results: Among 4063 participants with thyroid tumors (839 malignant, 3224 benign), higher PRS quartiles correlated significantly with increased thyroid cancer incidence. The highest quartile showed a 1.15-fold (PGS000797) and 1.14-fold (PGS000087) greater risk than the lowest quartile. Key findings included an association between higher PRS quartiles and younger onset age, along with a notable link to chronic kidney disease and thyroid hormone levels in specific SNPs. Conclusion: The study demonstrates PRS's utility in predicting thyroid cancer risk in the Han Chinese population, with higher PRS associated with increased risk and distinct clinical features. While this study focuses on the Han Chinese population, we recognize the importance of comparing PRS performance across different ancestries to fully understand ethnic genetic diversity in cancer risk assessment. Future studies should aim to include such comparative analysis.

Unified and vector theory of Raman scattering in gas-filled hollow-core fiber across temporal regimes.

Raman scattering has found renewed interest owing to the development of gas-filled hollow-core fibers, which constitute a unique platform for exploration of novel ultrafast nonlinear phenomena beyond conventional solid-core-fiber and free-space systems. Much progress has been made through models for particular interaction regimes, which are delineated by the relation of the excitation pulse duration to the time scales of the Raman response. However, current experimental settings are not limited to one regime, prompting the need for tools spanning multiple regimes. Here, we present a theoretical framework that accomplishes this goal. The theory allows us to review recent progress with a fresh perspective, makes new connections between distinct temporal regimes of Raman scattering, and reveals new degrees of freedom for controlling Raman physics. Specific topics that are addressed include transient Raman gain, the interplay of electronic and Raman nonlinearities in short-pulse propagation, and interactions of short pulses mediated by phonon waves. The theoretical model also accommodates vector effects, which have been largely neglected in prior works on Raman scattering in gases. The polarization dependence of transient Raman gain and vector effects on pulse interactions via phonon waves is investigated with the model. Throughout this Perspective, theoretical results are compared to the results of realistic numerical simulations. The numerical code that implements the new theory is freely available. We hope that the unified theoretical framework and numerical tool described here will accelerate the exploration of new Raman-scattering phenomena and enable new applications.

A meta-analysis of sutureless scleral-fixated intraocular lens versus retropupillary iris claw intraocular lens for the management of aphakia.

This study compared the visual outcomes and complications between sutureless scleral-fixated intraocular lens and iris claw intraocular lens implantation in aphakia without adequate capsule and/or zonule support. Studies comparing the clinical outcomes of scleral-fixated intraocular lens and iris claw intraocular lens implantation published until April 2022 were retrieved from the PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar databases. The outcomes included postoperative final visual acuity, surgical time, surgery-induced astigmatism, and complications. The weighted mean difference and odds ratio were calculated. Two randomized controlled trials and five cohort studies, including 244 and 290 eyes in the scleral-fixated intraocular lens group and iris claw group, respectively, were included. Scleral-fixated intraocular lens implantation results in a better postoperative final corrected distance visual acuity compared with iris claw intraocular lens implantation; however, it is more time-consuming. Scleral-fixated intraocular lens implantation seems to have lesser incidences of surgery-induced astigmatism. Furthermore, both procedures have a similar complication rate. Therefore, based on current best evidence, these two procedures should be considered according to patient's conditions.

Efficacy and safety of intravitreal faricimab for neovascular age-related macular degeneration: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the visual, anatomical, and safety outcomes of the intravitreal faricimab, a novel vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)/angiopoietin-2 (Ang-2) bispecific agent, in neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) patients. The follow-up times in the included studies ranged from a minimum of 36 weeks to a maximum of 52 weeks. EMBASE, Ovid-Medline, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Web of Science, Scopus, the WHO ICTRP, ClinicalTrial.gov, the EU Clinical Trials Register, and Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR) were searched (The last literature search was performed on August 17, 2023) for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing faricimab with control groups for neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD). The risk of bias for eligible RCTs was independently assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool by two authors (W.-T.Y. and C.-S.W.). The meta-analysis was conducted using Review Manager 5.4 software. The mean best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central subfield thickness (CST), total choroidal neovascularization (CNV) area, and total lesion leakage were analyzed as continuous variables and the outcome measurements were reported as the weighted mean difference (WMD) with a 95% confidence interval (CI). The ocular adverse events and ocular serious adverse events were analyzed as dichotomous variables and the outcome measurements were analyzed as the odds ratios (ORs) with a 95% CI. Random-effects model was used in our study for all outcome synthesizing due to different clinical characteristics. Four RCTs with 1,486 patients were eligible for quantitative analysis. There was no statistically significant difference between intravitreal faricimab and anti-VEGF in BCVA [weighted mean difference (WMD) = 0.47; 95% CI: (- 0.17, 1.11)]. The intravitreal faricimab group showed numerically lower CST [WMD = - 5.96; 95% CI = (- 7.11, - 4.82)], total CNV area [WMD = - 0.49; 95% CI = (- 0.68, - 0.30)], and total lesion leakage [WMD = - 0.88; 95% CI = (- 1.08, - 0.69)] after intravitreal therapy compared with the intravitreal anti-VEGF group. There were no statistically significant differences between intravitreal faricimab and anti-VEGF in ocular adverse events (AEs) [pooled odds ratio (OR) = 1.10; 95% CI = (0.81, 1.49)] and serious adverse events (SAEs) [pooled OR = 0.84; 95% CI = (0.37, 1.90)]. The intravitreal bispecific anti-VEGF/angiopoietin 2 (Ang2) antibody faricimab with a extended injection interval was non-inferior to first-line anti-VEGF agents in BCVA. It was safe and had better anatomical recovery. Large, well-designed RCTs are needed to explore the potential benefit of extended faricimab for nAMD. This systematic review was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) database (CRD42022327450).

Investigation of corneal epithelial thickness and irregularity by optical coherence tomography after transepithelial photorefractive keratectomy.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Corneal epithelial healing after refractive surgery is a clinically significant issue, especially for surface ablation procedures, and this can be monitored using optical coherence tomography (OCT). BACKGROUND: The aim of this work is to investigate the corneal epithelial thickness and irregularity by OCT after transepithelial photorefractive keratectomy (t-PRK) and analyse its correlation with visual and refractive outcomes. METHODS: Patients aged ≥18 years with myopia, with or without astigmatism, who underwent t-PRK between May 2020 and August 2021 were included. All participants were subjected to complete ophthalmic examinations and OCT pachymetry at every follow-up visit. Patients were followed up at 1 week and 1, 3, and 6 months postoperatively. RESULTS: A total of 67 patients (126 eyes) were enrolled in this study. One month postoperatively, spherical equivalent refraction and visual acuity achieved preliminary stability. However, central corneal epithelial thickness (CCET) and standard deviation of the corneal epithelial thickness (SDcet) took 3-6 months to progressive recovery. Patients with higher baseline spherical equivalent refraction were associated with slower epithelial recovery. At every follow-up time point, a significant superior-inferior difference in the minimum corneal epithelial thickness area was observed. Higher stromal haze was correlated with higher spherical equivalent refraction (both baseline and residual) but had no relation with visual outcomes. There was a significant correlation between higher CCET with a better uncorrected distance visual acuity and lower corneal epithelial thickness irregularity. CONCLUSIONS: CCET and SDcet measured by OCT seem to be a good auxiliary indicator for reflecting the status of corneal wound recovery after t-PRK surgery. However, a well-designed randomised control study is needed to confirm the study results.

The Role of Retinal Ganglion Cell Structure and Function in Glaucoma.

Glaucoma, a leading cause of irreversible blindness globally, primarily affects retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). This review dives into the anatomy of RGC subtypes, covering the different underlying theoretical mechanisms that lead to RGC susceptibility in glaucoma, including mechanical, vascular, excitotoxicity, and neurotrophic factor deficiency, as well as oxidative stress and inflammation. Furthermore, we examined numerous imaging methods and functional assessments to gain insight into RGC health. Finally, we investigated the current possible neuroprotective targets for RGCs that could help with future glaucoma research and management.

Overview of Recent Advances in Nano-Based Ocular Drug Delivery.

Ocular diseases profoundly impact patients' vision and overall quality of life globally. However, effective ocular drug delivery presents formidable challenges within clinical pharmacology and biomaterial science, primarily due to the intricate anatomical and physiological barriers unique to the eye. In this comprehensive review, we aim to shed light on the anatomical and physiological features of the eye, emphasizing the natural barriers it presents to drug administration. Our goal is to provide a thorough overview of various characteristics inherent to each nano-based drug delivery system. These encompass nanomicelles, nanoparticles, nanosuspensions, nanoemulsions, microemulsions, nanofibers, dendrimers, liposomes, niosomes, nanowafers, contact lenses, hydrogels, microneedles, and innovative gene therapy approaches employing nano-based ocular delivery techniques. We delve into the biology and methodology of these systems, introducing their clinical applications over the past decade. Furthermore, we discuss the advantages and challenges illuminated by recent studies. While nano-based drug delivery systems for ophthalmic formulations are gaining increasing attention, further research is imperative to address potential safety and toxicity concerns.

Prevalence of meibomian gland dysfunction at a tertiary centre in Taiwan.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Meibomian gland dysfunction and dry eye disease are closely related conditions that often coexist and can contribute to the development of each other. Understanding the similarities and differences between these diseases can assist clinicians in implementing effective treatments for both conditions in a clinical setting. BACKGROUND: Dry eye disease is a multifactorial disease of the tears and ocular surface. This study aimed to evaluate the demographic characteristics of patients with meibomian gland dysfunction in Taiwan, investigate the association between meibomian gland dysfunction and dry eye parameters, and estimate the prevalence of meibomian gland dysfunction among patients with dry eye symptoms at a tertiary referral centre. METHODS: This cross-sectional study enrolled patients aged ≥20 years who complained of dry eye symptoms and visited a tertiary centre between September 2019 and March 2020. The patients completed the Ocular Surface Disease Index and Standard Patient Evaluation of Eye Dryness questionnaires before undergoing ocular examination. The lipid layer thickness and meiboscale scores were recorded. In addition, the study measured tear film break-up time, examined corneal staining, and evaluated the number of meibomian glands yielding liquid secretions using a slit lamp. RESULTS: The study evaluated 202 eyes of 202 patients with a mean age of 58.05 ± 13.34 years. The prevalence of meibomian gland dysfunction was 93%. Mean meiboscale score and age were negatively associated, and tear film break-up time was positively associated with the mean number of meibomian glands yielding liquid secretions. Hyperlipidaemia and smoking were the main risk factors for Meibomian gland dysfunction. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of meibomian gland dysfunction among patients with dry eye symptoms was extremely high at the tertiary centre, highlighting the strong relationship between Meibomian gland dysfunction and dry eye disease. Clinicians should consider meibomian gland dysfunction as a possible cause of dry eye.

Biodegradable Polymer-Based Drug-Delivery Systems for Ocular Diseases.

Ocular drug delivery is a challenging field due to the unique anatomical and physiological barriers of the eye. Biodegradable polymers have emerged as promising tools for efficient and controlled drug delivery in ocular diseases. This review provides an overview of biodegradable polymer-based drug-delivery systems for ocular diseases with emphasis on the potential for biodegradable polymers to overcome the limitations of conventional methods, allowing for sustained drug release, improved bioavailability, and targeted therapy. Natural and synthetic polymers are both discussed, highlighting their biodegradability and biocompatibility. Various formulation strategies, such as nanoparticles, hydrogels, and microemulsions, among others, are investigated, detailing preparation methods, drug encapsulation, and clinical applications. The focus is on anterior and posterior segment drug delivery, covering glaucoma, corneal disorders, ocular inflammation, retinal diseases, age-related macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy. Safety considerations, such as biocompatibility evaluations, in vivo toxicity studies, and clinical safety, are addressed. Future perspectives encompass advancements, regulatory considerations, and clinical translation challenges. In conclusion, biodegradable polymers offer potential for efficient and targeted ocular drug delivery, improving therapeutic outcomes while reducing side effects. Further research is needed to optimize formulation strategies and address regulatory requirements for successful clinical implementation.

A Rare Case of Orbital Castleman Disease with Overlapping IgG4-Related Disease.

Multicentric Castleman disease (MCD) is a systemic lymphoproliferative disorder that can lead to mass lesions in various body parts, including the lungs, kidneys, and extranodal sites. Meanwhile, orbital Castleman disease is extremely rare. Immunoglobulin G4-related disease (IgG4-RD) is a recently recognized fibroinflammatory disorder and is characterized by the formation of tumor-like lesions with lymphoplasmacytic infiltrates, which are enriched in IgG4-positive plasma cells and may present with a characteristic storiform pattern of fibrosis to variable degrees. In this study, we report a case of a 67-year-old Taiwanese man with a 7-year history of bilateral eyelid swelling and proptosis. Orbital magnetic resonance imaging revealed soft tissue lesions in the bilateral intraconal region, demonstrating strong enhancement in the lacrimal glands, and extension into the bilateral infraorbital foramen, suggesting an orbital lymphoproliferative disease. The histopathological results of the intraorbital tumor excision were suggestive of a plasma-cell-predominant mixed-cell variant of MCD. However, the patient also showed definitive signs of IgG4-RD, including lacrimal gland enlargement and histopathological results of plasmacytosis, fibrosis, and germinal centers, with an increased ratio of IgG4 cells and elevated serum IgG4 levels. This case suggests a potential interacting pathway between these two disease entities that needs further studies.

Corneal topographic changes in patients with thyroid eye disease: A retrospective cross-sectional study.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to evaluate corneal topographic findings in patients with thyroid eye disease (TED) using a Galilei camera and compare their corneal topographic parameters with those of control patients. METHODS: This retrospective cross-sectional study included 52 eyes of 26 patients with TED (study group) and 40 eyes of 20 controls treated at a tertiary medical center in Taiwan between January and December 2021. All participants underwent basic ophthalmological examinations, corneal topography examination using a Galilei dual Scheimpflug camera, thyroid function examination, and orbital computed tomography. The corneal topographic parameters and cross-sectional area of the extraocular muscles were compared between the TED and control groups. RESULTS: Several corneal topographic parameters, including the Inferior-Superior Index, Keratoconus Prediction Index, Surface Asymmetry Index, Surface Regularity Index, simulated keratometry astigmatism, and anterior instantaneous astigmatism axis, differed significantly between the groups (P ≤ 0.05). The anterior instantaneous astigmatism axis was more oblique in the TED group than in the control group. A scatter plot revealed a more scattered distribution in the anterior instantaneous astigmatism axis in the TED group than in the control group. However, the corneal topographic parameters did not differ significantly among the different thyroid dysfunction groups. CONCLUSIONS: The corneas of patients with TED are suspicious and keratoconus-like, and TED can increase anterior corneal astigmatism in the oblique axis, albeit with large variations in the extent of change. These TED-related corneal changes may aid in the early diagnosis of TED, especially "silent" TED.

Updates on Biodegradable Formulations for Ocular Drug Delivery.

The complex nature of the ocular drug delivery barrier presents a significant challenge to the effective administration of drugs, resulting in poor therapeutic outcomes. To address this issue, it is essential to investigate new drugs and alternative delivery routes and vehicles. One promising approach is the use of biodegradable formulations to develop potential ocular drug delivery technologies. These include hydrogels, biodegradable microneedles, implants, and polymeric nanocarriers such as liposomes, nanoparticles, nanosuspensions, nanomicelles, and nanoemulsions. The research in these areas is rapidly growing. In this review, we provide an overview of recent updates in biodegradable formulations for ocular drug delivery over the past decade. Additionally, we examine the clinical use of different biodegradable formulations in various ocular diseases. The aim of this review is to gain a deeper understanding of potential future trends in biodegradable ocular drug delivery systems and to raise awareness of their potential for practical clinical application as a means of providing new treatment options for ocular diseases.

Erythropoietin in Glaucoma: From Mechanism to Therapy.

Glaucoma can cause irreversible vision loss and is the second leading cause of blindness worldwide. The disease mechanism is complex and various factors have been implicated in its pathogenesis, including ischemia, excessive oxidative stress, neurotropic factor deprivation, and neuron excitotoxicity. Erythropoietin (EPO) is a hormone that induces erythropoiesis in response to hypoxia. However, studies have shown that EPO also has neuroprotective effects and may be useful for rescuing apoptotic retinal ganglion cells in glaucoma. This article explores the relationship between EPO and glaucoma and summarizes preclinical experiments that have used EPO to treat glaucoma, with an aim to provide a different perspective from the current view that glaucoma is incurable.

Impact of Endophthalmitis on the Risk of Acute Myocardial Infarction in Ankylosing Spondylitis Patients: A Population-Based Retrospective Cohort Study.

Many studies have demonstrated an increased cardiovascular (CV) risk in ankylosing spondylitis (AS) patients. Nevertheless, the influence of an endophthalmitis episode toward the future risks of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in AS patients has been unclear. The objective of this study was to explore the impact of endophthalmitis on AMI risk in this particular patient population by a population-based retrospective cohort study with a follow-up period up to 16 years. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were used for the risk evaluation and the results were presented as crude and adjusted hazard ratios (HRs). Overall, we enrolled 557 AS patients with endophthalmitis as the study cohort and selected another 2228 matched AS patients without endophthalmitis as the comparison cohort. Comparing the comparison cohort, the study cohort showed a significantly higher overall AMI incidence rate with an adjusted HR of 1.631 (p < 0.001). In conclusion, endophthalmitis increased the risk of AMI in AS patients after adjusting for possible clinical confounders. Special attention and work-up are required for physicians when encountering a history of endophthalmitis in these special patient populations, especially when they are comorbid with other potential CV risk factors.

Preliminary data on a novel smart glasses system for measuring the angle of deviation in strabismus.

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: To propose a novel smart glasses device for recording eye movement and compare its results to the prism alternate cover test (PACT). SUBJECTS/METHODS: This method comparison study enrolled patients with strabismic conditions, who first underwent conventional strabismus evaluations (PACT in the primary position), followed by the smart glasses NeuroSpeed system (NSS) recording protocols. The video recordings were analysed using specialized software, to calculate the horizontal deviation from the primary position. The results were compared with those of the PACT using Passing‒Bablok regression and Bland‒Altman analysis. RESULTS: This study included 70 individuals aged 4 to 80 years, of which 38 were men and 32 were women. The overall analysis of horizontal deviations using the Passing‒Bablok regression revealed a correlation coefficient (r) of 0.969, with a systemic bias of 0.00, a proportional bias of 0.809, and a perpendicular residual standard deviation of 4.134. CONCLUSIONS: The predictive values of eye movement examinations recorded by the NSS were comparable to those of the PACT. Thus, this new system can provide additional information for ophthalmologists to aid in the diagnosis and measurement of strabismus.

The Latest Evidence of Erythropoietin in the Treatment of Glaucoma.

Erythropoietin (EPO) is a circulating hormone conventionally considered to be responsible for erythropoiesis. In addition to facilitating red blood cell production, EPO has pluripotent potential, such as for cognition improvement, neurogenesis, and anti-fibrotic, anti-apoptotic, anti-oxidative, and anti-inflammatory effects. In human retinal tissues, EPO receptors (EPORs) are expressed in the photoreceptor cells, retinal pigment epithelium, and retinal ganglion cell layer. Studies have suggested its potential therapeutic effects in many neurodegenerative diseases, including glaucoma. In this review, we discuss the correlation between glaucoma and EPO, physiology and potential neuroprotective function of the EPO/EPOR system, and latest evidence for the treatment of glaucoma with EPO.

Uveitis increases the risk of stroke among patients with ankylosing spondylitis: A nationwide population-based longitudinal study.

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is known to increase the risk of stroke. Among patients with AS, uveitis is the most common extra-articular manifestation. However, no previous investigations have discussed the association between uveitis and the risk for developing stroke in patients with AS. This retrospective cohort study aimed to explore the relationship between uveitis and the incidence of stroke in patients with AS by obtaining medical records from January 1, 2000, to December 31, 2015, from the National Health Insurance Research Database, according to the International Classification of Diseases, 9th Revision, Clinical Modification diagnosis codes. The primary outcome was the incidence of stroke. Pearson's chi-square test and Fisher's exact test were used to analyze variables. Kaplan-Meier survival curves and univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazard regression models with and without Fine and Gray's competing risk model were used to analyze data. Total 828 AS patients with uveitis and 3,312 AS patients without uveitis were identified. During the follow-up period, 137 patients in the uveitis group and 344 in the non-uveitis group developed stroke. Uveitis is a significant risk factor for stroke development in patients with AS (adjusted hazard ratio = 1.846, p < 0.001). Age, diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia, hypertension, congestive heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, coronary artery disease, and atrial fibrillation were associated with a higher risk of stroke. After subgroup analysis, both anterior uveitis and posterior segment involvement were found to increase the risk of stroke in patients with AS. Uveitis is associated with an increased risk in both ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes in patients with AS. Therefore, when uveitis is identified, clinicians should pay more attention to the cerebrovascular risk in patients with AS, especially in those with underlying comorbidities.