Ocular involvement in sarcoidosis

Propensity-Matched Analysis of the Risk of Age-Related Macular Degeneration with Systemic Immune-Mediated Inflammatory Disease

PURPOSE

The pathogenesis of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) involves aberrant complement activation and is a leading cause of vision loss worldwide. Complement aberrations are also implicated in many systemic immune-mediated inflammatory diseases (IMIDs), but the relationship between AMD and these conditions remains undescribed. The aim of this study is to first assess the association between AMD and IMIDs, and then assess the risk of AMD in patients with specific IMIDs associated with AMD.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional study and cohort study.

SUBJECTS AND CONTROLS

Patients with AMD were compared with control patients with cataracts and no AMD to ensure evaluation by an ophthalmologist. Patients with IMIDs were compared with patients without IMIDs but with cataracts.

METHODS

This study used deidentified data from a national database (2006-2023), using International Classification of Diseases 10 codes to select for IMIDs. Propensity score matching was based on patients on age, sex, race, ethnicity, and smoking. Odds ratios were generated for IMIDs and compared between AMD and control patients. For IMIDs associated with AMD, the risk of AMD in patients with the IMID versus patients without IMIDs was determined utilizing a cohort study design.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Odds ratio of IMID, risk ratios (RRs), and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of AMD diagnosis, given an IMID.

RESULTS

After propensity score matching, AMD and control cohorts (n = 217 197 each) had a mean ± standard deviation age of 74.7 ± 10.4 years, were 56% female, and 9% of patients smoked. Age-related macular degeneration showed associations with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriasis, sarcoidosis, scleroderma, giant cell arteritis, and vasculitis. Cohorts for each positively associated IMID were created and matched to control cohorts with no IMID history. Patients with RA (RR, 1.40; 95% CI, 1.30-1.49), SLE (RR, 1.73; 95% CI, 1.37-2.18), Crohn's disease (RR, 1.42; 95% CI, 1.20-1.71), ulcerative colitis (RR, 1.45; 95% CI, 1.29-1.63), psoriasis (RR, 1.48; 95% CI, 1.37-1.60), vasculitis (RR, 1.48; 95% CI, 1.33-1.64), scleroderma (RR, 1.65; 95% CI, 1.35-2.02), and sarcoidosis (RR, 1.42; 95% CI, 1.24-1.62) showed a higher risk of developing AMD compared with controls.

CONCLUSIONS

The results suggest that there is an increased risk of developing AMD in patients with RA, SLE, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, psoriasis, vasculitis, scleroderma, and sarcoidosis compared with patients with no IMIDs.

FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE(S)

Proprietary or commercial disclosure may be found in the Footnotes and Disclosures at the end of this article.

Clinical Patterns of Sarcoidosis Patients with and without Uveitis: Insights from a Dutch Sarcoidosis Centre

PURPOSE

Uveitis is a common ocular manifestation in individuals with sarcoidosis, a multisystem inflammatory disorder. This study aimed to explore clinical and genetic factors associated with the presence or absence of uveitis in sarcoidosis patients.

METHODS

Total 625 Dutch sarcoidosis patients were included. Among these, 170 underwent ophthalmic examination, and 61 were diagnosed with uveitis. Demographic and clinical data, including age, gender, race, biopsy status, chest radiography findings, TNF-α inhibitor treatment, and uveitis classification were collected retrospectively from medical records. Genetic data was available for HLA haplotypes, TNF-α G-308A, and BTNL2 G16071A polymorphisms.

RESULTS

The majority of the patients presented with bilateral uveitis (80.3%). The proportion of women was higher in the uveitis group compared to the non-uveitis group (67.2% and 47.7%; p = 0.014). Pulmonary involvement (chest radiographic stage II-III) was significantly lower in patients with uveitis (36.1% versus 64.2%; p < 0.001). Patients with uveitis were more often treated with TNF-α inhibitors (67.2% versus 29.4%; p < 0.001) and the outcome was better compared with the non-uveitis group, 92% vs 68%, responders (p < 0.012). Uveitis patients treated with TNF-α inhibitors (either adalimumab or infliximab) were more likely to suffer from intermediate or posterior uveitis than anterior uveitis. Genetic analysis identified a significant association between the BTNL2 G16071A GG genotype and uveitis (p = 0.012).

CONCLUSION

This study highlights distinctive demographic, clinical and genetic features associated with uveitis in sarcoidosis patients. Ocular sarcoidosis was more prevalent in women. Further research is warranted to explore the implications of these findings for treatment strategies and prognostic assessments.

Unusual and Rare Causes of Monocular Elevation Deficit

INTRODUCTION

To study the rare and unusual causes of monocular elevation deficit.

METHODS

Five patients presenting to us with diplopia and elevation deficit were thoroughly examined and were found to have monocular elevation deficit due to rare causes.

OBSERVATIONS

All five were found to have different underlying etiologies - iatrogenic, sphenoid wing meningioma, cysticercosis, sarcoidosis and mid brain infarct, and were managed appropriately.

DISCUSSION

Monocular Elevation Deficit can occur due to a variety of causes. Having a high index of suspicion for the more serious etiologies is of utmost importance. Thorough clinical examination and imaging help clinch the diagnosis.

Insights into the diagnosis and management of sarcoid uveitis: A review

Sarcoidosis is a leading cause of non-infectious uveitis that commonly affects middle-aged individuals and has a female preponderance. The disease demonstrates age, sex and ethnic differences in clinical manifestations. A diagnosis of sarcoidosis is made based on a compatible clinical presentation, supporting investigations and histologic evidence of non-caseating granulomas, although biopsy is not always possible. Multimodal imaging with widefield fundus photography, optical coherence tomography and angiography can help in the diagnosis of sarcoid uveitis and in the monitoring of treatment response. Corticosteroid remains the mainstay of treatment; chronic inflammation requires steroid-sparing immunosuppression. Features on multimodal imaging such as vascular leakage may provide prognostic indicators of outcome. Female gender, prolonged and severe uveitis, and posterior involving uveitis are associated with poorer visual outcomes.

Role of screening for uveitis in subjects with sarcoidosis

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Ocular involvement is common in sarcoidosis. Our study aimed to evaluate the role of screening for uveitis in subjects with sarcoidosis.

METHODS

Retrospective case series of 88 subjects with a pre-existing diagnosis of sarcoidosis, with no previous diagnosis of uveitis, reviewed by Ophthalmology at Auckland District Health Board between January 2016 and May 2022.

RESULTS

Among those undergoing a screening examination, uveitis was observed in 27.8% (15 out of 54 subjects). In those presenting with acute eye symptoms, uveitis was observed in 94.1% (32 out of 34 subjects). Sarcoid uveitis was diagnosed in a total of 50 out of 88 subjects (56.8%). 45 subjects required ocular treatment. Sarcoid uveitis was observed in 6 out of 27 subjects (22.2%) who were entirely asymptomatic at screening. On multivariate analysis, blurring of vision (OR 26.2 p < 0.001), eye pain (OR 7.3 p = 0.014) and respiratory disease (OR 7.1 p = 0.044) were associated with increased risk of sarcoid uveitis. In the 41 subjects with no uveitis at initial examination, 3 subjects (7.3%) subsequently developed uveitis.

CONCLUSION

Our study highlights the importance of ophthalmic screening of all patients with systemic sarcoidosis, even in asymptomatic patients. With a high correlation of ocular symptoms in diagnosis of sarcoid uveitis, ophthalmologists should educate patients to look out for the development of symptoms of ocular inflammation, and clinicians who continue follow up for systemic sarcoidosis should remind patients to watch carefully for these symptoms to facilitate timely diagnosis and intervention.

Ocular sarcoidosis, to screen or not to screen?

Ocular sarcoidosis most commonly presents with symptoms and is first diagnosed before systemic sarcoidosis in at least half of the patients with sarcoidosis. Prevalence of ocular involvement in sarcoidosis varies between 2-80% depending on the study setting, included ocular diseases, and studied population. In many studies, ocular involvement in sarcoidosis has been overestimated mainly because study populations have been collected from eye clinics and because the study criteria have included ocular findings or symptoms that do not require treatment or monitoring. In a screening setting, asymptomatic ocular sarcoidosis has been detected in only 2-5%. 0-1% of the screened sarcoidosis patients have required treatment. For these reasons, ocular screening in sarcoidosis seems generally of little value. Patients with sarcoidosis who present with ocular symptoms should be screened for ocular sarcoidosis in a timely manner because they are at high risk of ocular disease.

Clinical Features and Course in Patients Diagnosed with Ocular Sarcoidosis without Previously Known Systemic Disease at a Tertiary Referral Center in Turkey

PURPOSE

To evaluate the ocular features, course, and prognosis of uveitis in the ocular sarcoidosis (OS) subgroups without previously known systemic sarcoidosis.

METHODS

Ninety-one eyes of 49 patients were included. Definite OS patients were classified as group 1 (n = 15), presumed OS patients as group 2 (n = 15), and probable OS patients as group 3 (n = 19).

RESULTS

 The most common presentation of OS was panuveitis in all groups. During the follow-up, bilateral ocular involvement was observed in 85.7% of the patients. The most common extraocular involvement was pulmonary involvement, which was detected in 61.2% of the patients at the time of diagnosis.

CONCLUSION

Ophthalmologists should be aware that uveitis may be the first sign of systemic sarcoidosis. In all subgroups of OS, uveitis tends to be bilateral and the most common type is panuveitis. Therefore, the eye without obvious clinical findings should be carefully evaluated clinically and angiographically.

Ocular Sarcoidosis and Autoimmune Polyglandular Syndrome Type 2: A Case Report

PURPOSE

to describe a clinical case of ocular sarcoidosis in a patient with Autoimmune Polyglandular Syndrome Type 2 (APS-2).

METHODS

an 86-year-old female diagnosed with APS-2 was referred to our uveitis department with rapid visual loss in her left eye during a 3-month period. Her best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was counting fingers in her left eye (OS) and 20/40 in her right eye (OD). Slit-lamp biomicroscopy was unremarkable OD but revealed granulomatous keratic precipitates OS. Fundoscopy revealed bilateral optic disc oedema and +2 and 4+ vitritis (SUN classification) in her OD and OS, respectively.

RESULTS

the patient underwent chest X-Ray which revealed bilateral hilar lymphadenopathy and fibrosis. On high-resolution computed tomography of the lungs, ground-glass opacities were visible, and a diagnosis of ocular sarcoidosis was presumed. After exclusion of infectious diseases, the patient was treated with methotrexate and oral corticosteroids and there was substantial improvement of the optic nerve oedema and vitritis. At the most recent visit, 2 years later, OS BCVA was 20/50.

CONCLUSION

There may be an association between ocular sarcoidosis and APS or other autoimmune disorders.

Diagnosis of systemic sarcoidosis in a patient with bilateral granulomatous pan-uveitis: a case report

Introduction and importance

Sarcoidosis is a systemic disease usually presenting with features of hilar lymphadenopathy like persistent cough, dyspnoea, cough, night sweats. However, its first and only manifestation can be ocular symptoms consistent with uveitis.

Case presentation

The authors present such association in a 53-year-old female who had ocular symptoms on and off, designated as uveitis. Despite medications, her symptoms rather flared up. On diagnostic assesement done years later, chest X-ray showed bilateral hilar lymphadenopathy, serum angiotensin-converting enzyme levels were also raised, and the diagnosis of systemic sarcoidosis was confirmed.

Clinical discussion

Eye involvement can occur way before the systemic presence of the disease is detected and can be present clinically as an isolated entity which makes diagnosis of underlying sarcoidosis a challenge.

Conclusion

Consideringsarcoidosis as one of the differential diagnosis when attending patients with non-resolving uveitis remains the mainstay of this report.

Recurrent Heerfordt-Waldenström Syndrome with thyroid and meningeal involvement in a Chinese woman

Sarcoidosis is a multisystem granulomatous disorder of unknown etiology, manifesting with bilateral hilar adenopathy, pulmonary reticular opacities, skin, joint or eye lesions. Heerfordt-Waldenström Syndrome - a constellation of facial palsy, fever, uveitis and parotitis - is a rare presentation of this disorder. A 47-year-old Chinese woman presented with unintentional weight loss, lethargy with mediastinal and hilar lymphadenopathy. Biopsy of the right paratracheal lymph node via mediastinoscopy showed mycobacterial granulomatous lymphadenitis consistent with tuberculosis with several acid-fast bacilli identified. Lymphoproliferative disorder was ruled out. She was started on treatment for tuberculosis. Eleven weeks into treatment, she developed a right facial palsy accompanied with fever, uveitis and occipital headache. At this juncture, further history revealed a background of recurrent alternating facial palsy and parotid gland enlargement which was treated for Bell's palsy by three different doctors. New nodules appeared in the left lobe of the thyroid gland. Biopsy of a palpable thyroid nodule and a right supraclavicular lymph nodule showed histological features suggestive of sarcoidosis. Fungal and mycobacterial infections were ruled out. In addition, examination of her cerebral spinal fluid showed lymphocytic inflammation. The serum ACE level was not raised. A diagnosis of sarcoidosis with incomplete features of Heerfordt-Waldenström Syndrome along with thyroid and meningeal involvement was made. The patient was commenced on prednisolone and azathioprine and her symptoms responded shortly after. We present a rare case of Heerfordt-Waldenström Syndrome with thyroid and meningeal involvement in a Chinese woman.

Ocular sarcoidosis in adults and children: update on clinical manifestation and diagnosis

Sarcoidosis-associated uveitis, is the predominant ocular sarcoidosis presentation, which affects both adults and children. For adults, international ocular sarcoidosis criteria (IWOS) and sarcoidosis-associated uveitis criteria (SUN) are defined. However, for children they are not yet established internationally. Due to the specificity of pediatric manifestations of sarcoidosis, this task is even more challenging. In children, sarcoidosis is subdivided into Blau syndrome and early-onset sarcoidosis (BS/EOS) affecting younger children (< 5 years) and the one affecting older children with clinical presentation resembling adults. Differential diagnosis, clinical work-up as well as diagnostic criteria should be adapted to each age group. In this article, we review the clinical manifestation of sarcoidosis-associated uveitis in adults and children and the sensitivity and specificity of various ocular sarcoidosis diagnostic modalities, including chest X-ray and CT, FDG PET-CT, gallium-67 scintigraphy, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, genetic testing for NOD2 mutations and serum biomarkers, such as ACE, lysozyme and IL2R.

Coexistence of open-angle glaucoma and sarcoidosis-associated optic neuropathy

BACKGROUND

In cases with advanced glaucomatous disc changes, further changes associated with other optic neuropathies cannot be easily identified. We present a case of preexisting open-angle glaucoma and concurrent involvement of sarcoidosis-associated optic neuropathy.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 53-year-old man presented with gradual visual loss in his left eye, which began 1 year ago and accelerated 3 months ago. The best-corrected visual acuity in the right eye was 20/20 and counting fingers in the left. Intraocular pressures (IOP) were 12 mmHg in the right eye and 34 mmHg in the left. We diagnosed him with advanced open-angle glaucoma in the left eye based on the advanced glaucomatous cupping of the left optic disc. The IOP in the left eye dropped to 10 mmHg and was well controlled with antiglaucomatous medication; however, his left optic disc developed pallor 3 months after the treatment. The patient was revealed to be diagnosed with sarcoidosis a month ago and had been treated with systemic corticosteroids thereafter by a pulmonologist. Orbital magnetic resonance imaging revealed sarcoidosis-associated optic neuropathy in the left eye. Subsequently, optic neuropathy occurred in his right eye.

CONCLUSIONS

In eyes with advanced glaucomatous disc change, detecting the coexistence of other optic neuropathies can be difficult. This report highlights the importance of careful ophthalmic examinations and investigation for etiologies of other optic neuropathies if non-glaucomatous changes are suspected even in eyes with advanced glaucoma.

Low utility of ocular screening in sarcoidosis in Finland

PURPOSE

Systematic ocular screening is recommended in sarcoidosis, because of a high rate of ocular involvement. The purpose of this study was to determine whether ocular screening is useful in sarcoidosis in a Finnish university hospital population with 0.5 M inhabitants.

METHODS

Patient charts of patients with sarcoidosis, without a history of ocular sarcoidosis, without ocular inflammatory symptoms, and with a comprehensive eye exam from January 2014 to January 2021 at Tays Eye Centre, Tampere, Finland, were studied.

RESULTS

Five of 262 patients (2%) were diagnosed with asymptomatic uveitis. No other types of ocular sarcoidosis were found. Anterior uveitis without complications was present in three patients, unilaterally in two and bilaterally in one patient. Posterior uveitis was present in two patients, a unilateral choroidal granuloma requiring treatment in one and bilateral punched-out chorioretinal lesions in the other patient.

CONCLUSIONS

With this low rate of ocular involvement requiring treatment in sarcoidosis, systematic screening for asymptomatic ocular sarcoidosis does not seem useful in a Finnish population. In Tays Eye Centre, systematic screening of ocular sarcoidosis was discontinued in 2021.

A Case of Orbital Sarcoidosis with Caseating Granulomatous Inflammation

The authors report a rare case of orbital sarcoidosis with caseating granulomatous inflammation. A 55-year-old man presented with a 2-month history of progressively worsening diplopia and proptosis of the OS. Orbital CT demonstrated a diffuse orbital mass. Diagnostic anterior orbitotomy demonstrated caseating granulomas. Infectious testing, including special stains, cultures, and polymerase chain reaction testing, were negative for infectious causes. Chest CT demonstrated the presence of hilar lymphadenopathy with bronchoscopic biopsy showing noncaseating granulomas, supporting a diagnosis of sarcoidosis. The patient achieved clinical and symptomatic improvement at 8-month follow-up on methotrexate. While sarcoidosis is typically characterized by non-necrotizing granulomatous inflammation, sarcoid granulomas with necrosis have been previously described in pulmonary histopathology. This case emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive systemic workup, keeping systemic sarcoidosis on the differential, for necrotizing granulomatous inflammation of the orbit.

Conjunctival Impression Cytology and Tear Film Changes in Sarcoidosis: A Subjective and Objective Diagnosis Study

Objectives

To evaluate sarcoidosis-induced tear film changes using subjective and objective diagnostic tests, particularly conjunctival impression cytology (IC), and to compare the results with healthy individuals.

Materials and Methods

This study evaluated clinical data collected between January 2019 and January 2021 from 57 right eyes of 57 sarcoidosis patients without ocular involvement (Group 1) and 33 right eyes of 33 healthy individuals with similar demographic characteristics (Group 2). The Schirmer I test, tear break-up time (TBUT), fluorescein staining, and conjunctival IC were all performed as part of the conjunctival and corneal examinations following a thorough ophthalmological examination. The Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) was used to assess subjective ocular symptoms.

Results

The mean ages in Groups 1 and 2 were 49.26±3.18 and 51.91±2.89 years, respectively (p=0.720). The mean Schirmer I test, TBUT, and OSDI scores differed significantly (p<0.05 for all), with Group 1 having a significantly higher percentage of dry eyes than Group 2. Group 1 had significantly higher Nelson's grading system grades than Group 2 based on conjunctival IC analysis (p=0.001). There were no significant differences in visual acuity (p=0.17) or intraocular pressure (p=0.14) between groups.

Conclusion

Sarcoidosis patients had significantly higher Nelson grades in conjunctival IC, as well as significantly higher percentages of dry eye as determined by the Schirmer I test, TBUT, and OSDI. Reduced tear quantity and quality may destabilize the tear film layer, resulting in a variety of ocular symptoms.

Sarcoidosis-Related Uveitis: A Review

Sarcoidosis is an inflammatory disease that involves the eyes in 10-55% of cases, sometimes without systemic involvement. All eye structures can be affected, but uveitis is the most common ocular manifestation and causes vision loss. The typical ophthalmological appearance of these uveitis is granulomatous (in cases with anterior involvement), which are usually bilateral and with synechiae. Posterior involvement includes vitritis, vasculitis and choroidal lesions. Tuberculosis is a classic differential diagnosis to be wary of, especially in people who have spent time in endemic areas. The diagnosis is based on histology with the presence of non-caseating epithelioid granulomas. However, due to the technical difficulty and yield of biopsies, the diagnosis of ocular sarcoidosis is often based on clinico-radiological features. The international criteria for the diagnosis of ocular sarcoidosis have recently been revised. Corticosteroids remain the first-line treatment for sarcoidosis, but up to 30% of patients require high doses, justifying the use of corticosteroid-sparing treatments. In these cases, immunosuppressive treatments such as methotrexate may be introduced. More recent biotherapies such as anti-TNF are also very effective (as they are in other non-infectious uveitis etiologies).

Ocular manifestations of common pulmonary diseases: a narrative review

Several pulmonary disorders can cause ocular involvement. Understanding these manifestations is critical for early diagnosis and treatment. Hence, we set out to examine the most common ocular manifestations of asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), sarcoidosis, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), and lung cancer. Allergic keratoconjunctivitis and dry eye are two ocular manifestations of bronchial asthma. The inhaled corticosteroids used to treat asthma can cause cataract formation. COPD is associated with ocular microvascular changes as a result of chronic hypoxia and systemic inflammation spillover into the eyes. Its clinical significance, however, is unknown. Ocular involvement is common in sarcoidosis, occurring in 20% of cases of pulmonary sarcoidosis. It can affect nearly any anatomical structure of the eye. Obstructive sleep apnea has been linked to floppy eye syndrome, glaucoma, non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy, keratoconus, retinal vein occlusion, and central serous retinopathy, according to research. However, while an association has been established, causality has yet to be established. The effect of positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy used to treat OSA on the aforementioned ocular conditions is unknown. PAP therapy can cause eye irritation and dryness. Lung cancer can affect the eyes through direct nerve invasion, ocular metastasis, or as part of a paraneoplastic syndrome. The goal of this narrative review is to raise awareness about the link between ocular and pulmonary disorders in order to aid in the early detection and treatment of these conditions.

[Sarcoid uveitis: Ophthalmologist's and internist's viewpoints]

Sarcoidosis is one of the leading causes of inflammatory eye disease. All ocular structures can be affected, but uveitis is the main manifestation responsible for vision loss in ocular sarcoidosis. Typical sarcoid anterior uveitis presents with mutton-fat keratic precipitates, iris nodules, and posterior synechiae. Posterior involvement includes vitritis, vasculitis, and choroidal lesions. Cystoid macular edema is the most important and sight-threatening consequence of sarcoid uveitis. Patients with clinically isolated uveitis at diagnosis rarely develop other organ involvement. Even though, ocular sarcoidosis can have a severe impact on visual prognosis, early diagnosis and a wider range of available therapies (including intravitreal implants) have lessened the functional impact of the disease, particularly in the last decade. Corticosteroids are the cornerstone of treatment for sarcoidosis, but up to 30% of patients achieve remission with requiring high-dose systemic steroids. In these cases, the use of steroid-sparing immunosuppressive therapy (such as methotrexate) is unavoidable. Among these immunosuppressive treatments, anti TNF-α drugs have been a revolution in the management of non-infectious uveitis.

[Association of the different forms of uveitis with inflammatory rheumatic diseases and their treatment]

The etiology of uveitis greatly varies worldwide, whereby in industrial nations noninfectious causes occur relatively more frequently. In Germany, 44% of all cases of uveitis are due to systemic diseases. In rheumatology, uveitis or other kinds of ocular inflammation, such as scleritis or retinal vasculitis, most commonly occur in spondylarthritis, vasculitis and sarcoidosis. Vice versa, ophthalmologists often ask rheumatologists about an underlying rheumatic disease in patients with uveitis. It is of utmost importance to differentiate between the different forms of uveitis. This review article presents the associations with inflammatory rheumatic diseases as well as treatment options from the point of view of both ophthalmologists and rheumatologists.

Uveitis in Sarcoidosis - Clinical Features and Comparison with Other Non-infectious Uveitis

PURPOSE

Comparison of sarcoid uveitis with other non-infectious uveitis treatment and visual outcomes.

METHODS

Retrospective study of 287 eyes with sarcoid uveitis and 1517 eyes with other non-infectious uveitis (15,029 eye-years follow-up).

RESULTS

Sarcoid uveitis patients presented at age 43.1 ± 0.8 years, and 66.2% were female. Panuveitis was the most frequent presentation (48.3%), and 90.1% were bilateral. Moderate visual loss (≤20/50) developed in 19 eyes (6.6%), and severe visual loss (≤20/200) in 13 eyes (4.5%). Sarcoid uveitis had better visual outcomes than other non-infectious uveitis (10-year BCVA anterior uveitis 0.06 vs 0.24 p = .002; posterior disease 0.17 vs 0.38 p = .001). Oral corticosteroid use was more common with sarcoid uveitis (anterior uveitis 45.9% vs 16.4% p < .0005; posterior disease 64.0% vs 61.7% p = .635), but second-line immunosuppression was required less frequently (p = .008).

CONCLUSIONS

Compared to other non-infectious uveitis, sarcoid uveitis has better visual acuity outcomes and is less likely to require second-line immunosuppression.

Unilateral Multifocal Choroidal Nodules as the Sole Initial Manifestation of Systemic Sarcoidosis - Diagnostic Role of PET-CT Scan

PURPOSE

To present a case of multifocal choroidal nodules as the sole manifestation of systemic sarcoidosis with role of PET- CT Scan.

METHODS

Retrospective observational case report.

RESULTS

A 66 -year-old male presented with blurring of vision in left eye since 2 weeks. He had no systemic complaints. On fundus examination in left eye showed three well -defined choroidal nodules inferotemporal to optic disc. A negative mantoux test, elevated serum angiotensin converting enzyme level and PET scan analysis helped to clinch the diagnosis of sarcoid uveitis. The choroidal nodules completely resolved after a course of oral corticosteroid.

CONCLUSION

Multifocal choroidal nodules can be the sole manifestation of systemic sarcoidosis.

Long-term follow-up of certolizumab pegol in uveitis due to immune-mediated inflammatory diseases: multicentre study of 80 patients

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate effectiveness and safety of certolizumab pegol (CZP) in uveitis due to immune-mediated inflammatory diseases (IMID).

METHODS

Multicentre study of CZP-treated patients with IMID uveitis refractory to conventional immunosuppressant. Effectiveness was assessed through the following ocular parameters: best-corrected visual acuity, anterior chamber cells, vitritis, macular thickness and retinal vasculitis. These variables were compared between the baseline, and first week, first, third, sixth months, first and second year.

RESULTS

We studied 80 (33 men/47 women) patients (111 affected eyes) with a mean age of 41.6±11.7 years. The IMID included were: spondyloarthritis (n=43), Behçet's disease (n=10), psoriatic arthritis (n=8), Crohn's disease (n=4), sarcoidosis (n=2), juvenile idiopathic arthritis (n=1), reactive arthritis (n=1), rheumatoid arthritis (n=1), relapsing polychondritis (n=1), CONCLUSIONS: CZP seems to be effective and safe in uveitis related to different IMID, even in patients refractory to previous biological drugs.

The Role of Screening for Asymptomatic Ocular Inflammation in Sarcoidosis

PURPOSE

To determine the utility of routine screening ophthalmic exam in patients with systemic sarcoidosis and no history of uveitis.

METHODS

Prospective, single-center, observational study conducted at Northwestern University from October 11, 2012 to October 1, 2020 of new patients with biopsy-proven systemic sarcoidosis and no history of uveitis, referred by medical subspecialists for screening ophthalmic exam.

RESULTS

Forty-nine patients, with mean age of 51 ± 8.7 years, 59% female, 47% African American, 43% Caucasian, were enrolled. The majority (55%) had no ocular symptoms. The most common location of ocular involvement was the adnexa, in the form of conjunctival nodules (62%) and aqueous tear deficiency (23%). Intraocular inflammation was detected in 6 patients (13%); only 2 had active disease requiring treatment (4%). No asymptomatic patient had ocular involvement necessitating treatment.

CONCLUSION

Screening exams are indicated in sarcoidosis patients with ocular symptoms. No benefit of screening was demonstrated in asymptomatic patients.

Choroidal sarcoid granuloma: a case report and review of the literature

BACKGROUND

Choroidal sarcoid granulomas are often diagnosed in patients without a prior history of sarcoidosis. They are often mistaken for choroidal metastasis, choroidal nevi, amelanotic choroidal melanomas, and uveal lymphomas; however, are easily treatable when accurately identified.

OBSERVATIONS

We searched PubMed, Medline, and Scopus for English-Language case reports published before September 2021. Additionally, we presented a case of a 45-year-old woman with a right-sided amelanotic choroidal mass whose diagnosis was delayed by a COVID-19 infection. Of the 26 cases reported in the literature, 46% were female, 38% were African American, and 19% had bilateral involvement. There was a mean age of 42.15 years and a mean follow-up period of 27 months. The most common complaint was of a progressive, painless blurring of vision, and only five patients had been previously diagnosed with sarcoidosis. The choroidal granulomas were typically described as yellow lesions, single or multiple, found temporal to or at the macula. Most patients were administered steroids, with 69% receiving them systemically, 5% topically, and 8% locally with a triamcinolone injection. All patients reported symptomatic improvement at their final follow-up with resolution of the mass in 65% of patients and improved visual acuity in 76%.

CONCLUSION

Primary testing including fundoscopy, fluorescein angiography, fundus autofluorescence, A/B-scan, and OCT are useful for diagnosis, differentiation from other choroidal lesions, and monitoring treatment response. Steroids are a mainstay of treatment for sarcoidosis and are effective at treating choroidal granulomas. Therefore, early recognition and diagnosis of choroidal granulomas is imperative as treatment can be curative and sight-sparing.

[Association of the different forms of uveitis with inflammatory rheumatic diseases and their treatment]

The etiology of uveitis greatly varies worldwide, whereby in industrial nations noninfectious causes occur relatively more frequently. In Germany, 44% of all cases of uveitis are due to systemic diseases. In rheumatology, uveitis or other kinds of ocular inflammation, such as scleritis or retinal vasculitis, most commonly occur in spondylarthritis, vasculitis and sarcoidosis. Vice versa, ophthalmologists often ask rheumatologists about an underlying rheumatic disease in patients with uveitis. It is of utmost importance to differentiate between the different forms of uveitis. This review article presents the associations with inflammatory rheumatic diseases as well as treatment options from the point of view of both ophthalmologists and rheumatologists.

Sarcoid Uveitis: An Intriguing Challenger

The purpose of our work is to describe the actual knowledge concerning etiopathogenesis, clinical manifestations, diagnostic procedures, complications and therapy of ocular sarcoidosis (OS). The study is based on a recent literature review and on the experience of our tertiary referral center. Data were retrospectively analyzed from the electronic medical records of 235 patients (461 eyes) suffering from a biopsy-proven ocular sarcoidosis. Middle-aged females presenting bilateral ocular involvement are mainly affected; eye involvement at onset is present in one-third of subjects. Uveitis subtype presentation ranges widely among different studies: panuveitis and multiple chorioretinal granulomas, retinal segmental vasculitis, intermediate uveitis and vitreitis, anterior uveitis with granulomatous mutton-fat keratic precipitates, iris nodules, and synechiae are the main ocular features. The most important complications are cataract, glaucoma, cystoid macular edema (CME), and epiretinal membrane. Therapy is based on the disease localization and the severity of systemic or ocular involvement. Local, intravitreal, or systemic steroids are the mainstay of treatment; refractory or partially responsive disease has to be treated with conventional and biologic immunosuppressants. In conclusion, we summarize the current knowledge and assessment of ophthalmological inflammatory manifestations (mainly uveitis) of OS, which permit an early diagnostic assay and a prompt treatment.

Prevalence, clinical profile, investigations, and visual outcome of sarcoid intermediate uveitis in a tertiary eye care center in South India

Purpose:

To report the prevalence, clinical profile, investigations, and visual outcomes of sarcoid intermediate uveitis in a tertiary eye care center in South India.

Methods:

Retrospective, observational case series. Records of 29 patients with sarcoid intermediate uveitis were retrieved. Complete ophthalmic evaluation and systemic examination by a pulmonologist with appropriate laboratory investigations were done. Results were analyzed using SPSS software.

Results:

Mean age group was 42.14 ± 11.31 years. The bilateral presentation was more common and females were more affected than males. Anterior chamber cells and flares in 22.4% of cases (N = 11 eyes), posterior synechiae in 20.4% (N = 10 eyes), and both small and mutton fat keratic precipitates in 14.2% of cases (N = 7 eyes) were noted; only one eye had Busacca nodules similar to other granulomatous uveitis. Cystoid macular edemas were present in three eyes. Treatment with oral steroids and systemic immunosuppression resulted in good visual recovery. The mean presenting visual acuity in right and left eye were 0.2 and 0.3, respectively. The mean final visual acuity in right and left eye was 0.1 and 0.3, respectively.

Conclusion:

Sarcoid intermediate uveitis is quite common in a tuberculosis endemic country like India. A complete review of systems with appropriate investigations is essential to prevent visual complications.

Identification of multidimensional phenotypes using cluster analysis in sarcoid uveitis patients

PURPOSE

To identify multidimensional phenotypes of sarcoid uveitis patients Design: Retrospective cohort.

METHODS

Study Population: Consecutive patients with biopsy-proven, presumed or probable sarcoid uveitis between December 2003 and December 2020 in Lyon.

OBSERVATION PROCEDURE

Data were collected from the clinical notes, and consisted in laboratory and imaging findings, systemic treatments and outcome. Systemic sarcoidosis was diagnosed according to the Abad's modified criteria and uveitis were classified according to the Standardization of Uveitis Nomenclature. A hierarchical cluster analysis was performed.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

Identification of different phenotypes of sarcoid uveitis patients.

RESULTS

299 patients were included. Three clusters were identified: 1) younger non-Caucasian patients who presented acute (75.3%), anterior (55.6%) uveitis, and systemic manifestations (87.8%), requiring oral corticosteroids (75.3%) along with immunosuppressive therapy (17.2%) and who were more prone to experience complete visual recovery (84.1%); 2) middle-aged Caucasian patients who presented chronic (91.7%), panuveitis (79.5%) and isolated uveitis at diagnosis (74.8%), requiring systemic treatment with corticosteroids (74.0%) but less frequently immunosuppressive therapy (9.8%) and a worse prognosis (45.3% complete visual recovery); 3) middle-aged Caucasian patients, without preferential chronic or acute uveitis, isolated uveitis at diagnosis (81.4%), more homogenous in terms of eye involvement repartition, requiring less corticosteroids or immunosuppressive therapy (respectively 54.1% and 13.1%) and having a prognosis close to cluster-2 patients (55.3% complete visual recovery).

CONCLUSIONS

This retrospective study suggested the existence of several phenotypes of sarcoid uveitis patients with different progressions and prognoses. Further studies are needed to determine the genetic and environmental factors that could explain these results.

Sarcoidosis presenting as bilateral optic neuritis after ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccination

Sarcoidosis is an idiopathic granulomatous disease and can virtually affect any organ system. Multiple factors, including tubercular antigens organic and environmental exposures, have been implicated in its pathogenesis. In addition to drugs, sarcoid-like reactions have been reported following varicella and influenza vaccination. Few reports of erythema nodosum and Lofgren syndrome have been reported after the COVID19 vaccination, though no histologic diagnosis was pursued in these cases. We herein report a case of sarcoidosis presenting with bilateral acute onset vision loss with a temporal association with COVID19 vaccination (ChadOx-1 n-COV, COVISHIELDTM). Symptoms started within two weeks of receiving the vaccine. Alternate causes for optic neuritis were excluded. Transbronchial lung biopsy showed the presence of non-caseating epithelioid cell granulomas. The patient received high-dose corticosteroids immediately after diagnosis, albeit with incomplete clinical improvement in vision on a three-month follow-up. In conclusion, we report a novel case of sarcoidosis-related optic neuritis following COVID19 vaccination.

Clinical features and visual outcomes of ocular sarcoidosis at a tertiary referral center in Tokyo

BACKGROUND

To analyze clinical features, treatment, complications, and visual outcomes of ocular sarcoidosis at a tertiary center in Tokyo.

METHODS

Clinical records of 53 patients with ocular sarcoidosis ("definite" or "presumed") presenting between 2013 and 2018 to the Kyorin Eye Center were retrospectively reviewed. Diagnosis was based on the revised criteria of the International Workshop on Ocular Sarcoidosis.

RESULTS

Definite (biopsy-proven) disease was present in 87% of patients and presumed disease in 13%. The mean age at presentation was 58 years (13-81 years) and 68% were women. The mean follow-up was 34 months (6-70 months). Forty-five patients (85%) had panuveitis, and the most common ocular clinical sign suggestive of ocular sarcoidosis was bilaterality (92%). Ocular complications were observed in 93 eyes (85%), most commonly cataract (73%), epiretinal membrane (24%), macular edema (24%) and glaucoma (19%). Thirty-one eyes (30%) underwent cataract surgery and 12 eyes (12%) underwent pars plana vitrectomy. Ten patients (19%) received systemic corticosteroid therapy and 33 eyes (32%) received periocular corticosteroid injections. The best-corrected visual acuity was 1.0 or better in 51% of eyes at presentation, 57% at 6 months, 50% at 12 months, and 58% at 36 months.

CONCLUSIONS

The majority of ocular sarcoidosis patients were women, had bilateral disease and panuveitis involvement. Most eyes maintained good visual acuity, although surgical interventions for cataract and epiretinal membrane were common.

Clinical manifestations and risk factors for poor visual outcomes of ocular sarcoidosis in Taiwan

PURPOSE

To assess ocular involvement in sarcoidosis and to analyze the manifestations of ocular sarcoidosis (OS) in Taiwan.

METHODS

A retrospective review was performed in 364 patients diagnosed as sarcoidosis at National Taiwan University Hospital from 2015 to 2019. The OS diagnosis was based on the revised criteria of International Workshop on Ocular Sarcoidosis. Demographics, clinical manifestations, treatment and effects, complications, visual outcomes and risk factors of poor vision (<20/200) were analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 122 eyes of 66 patients (13 males and 53 females) with OS were identified. Bilateral involvement accounted for 84.8%. Thirty-five patients were diagnosed with definite OS, 14 with presumed OS and 17 with probable OS. The average age was 51.9 ± 14.1 years, with no significant difference in sex. Most patients presented with panuveitis (61 eyes, 50.0%) and posterior uveitis (52 eyes, 42.6%). Systemic steroid was the mainstay treatment, and immunosuppressants or anti-metabolic agents were supplemented. Common complications included cataract (50.8%), ocular hypertension/glaucoma (25.4%) and posterior synechiae (20.5%). Forty-three eyes (36.1%) and 74 eyes (62.2%) had a final vision of 20/20 and 20/40 or better, respectively. The causes of poor visual outcome were diverse, and generalized estimating equations analysis indicated that female and poor initial vision were risk factors.

CONCLUSION

Uveitis is an early sign of sarcoidosis and it might result in several complications. The overall visual outcomes were good if patients received proper treatment. Both poor initial vision and females that tended to have more severe complications were associated with poor outcome.

Corneal Sarcoidosis: Diffuse Stromal Granulomatous Inflammation in a Patient With Sarcoidosis

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to present a case of diffuse noncaseating granulomas involving the corneal stroma in a patient with ocular and pulmonary sarcoidosis.

METHODS

This was a single case report.

RESULTS

A 31-year-old female patient presented with a 6-year history of panuveitis of the right eye along with a history of pulmonary sarcoidosis and a conjunctival biopsy of the right eye that was reported as positive for sarcoidosis. At presentation to our clinic, the patient had band keratopathy, vascularization of the inferonasal cornea, and active anterior uveitis of the right eye. When the patient returned for a follow-up of 15 months after the initial presentation, the cornea of the right eye exhibited widespread stromal scarring and vascularization. Because of the corneal scarring, the patient underwent an implantation of a Boston type 1 keratoprosthesis in the right eye. Histopathological examination of the host corneal tissue removed at the time of the keratoprosthesis procedure revealed extensive noncaseating granulomas in the deep corneal stroma. The patient underwent penetrating keratoplasty 8 months later, and histopathological examination again demonstrated noncaseating granulomas, this time at the edges of the donor corneal graft used during the keratoprosthesis implantation.

CONCLUSIONS

We present the histopathological evidence of sarcoidosis involving the corneal stroma. Interestingly, the stromal keratitis also subsequently involved the donor cornea tissue after the patient underwent a keratoprosthesis implantation. It seems that sarcoidosis is a rare cause of stromal keratitis.

Ischemic Proliferative Retinopathy as the Presenting Feature of Systemic Sarcoidosis

Purpose:

This work reports a case of systemic sarcoidosis presenting with ischemic ocular manifestations without uveitis.

Methods:

This case report describes a 28-year-old White male who presented with pain, redness, and blurry vision of his left eye for 1 month who was found to have proliferative retinopathy and neovascular glaucoma.

Results:

Normal fasting blood glucose and glycated hemoglobin A1c levels warranted further investigation. Abnormal findings from chest x-ray of hilar lymphadenopathy as well as an elevated angiotensin-converting enzyme level were suggestive of sarcoidosis, and they were further confirmed by histopathology derived through bronchoscopy.

Conclusions:

Systemic sarcoidosis may present with rapidly progressing ischemic retinopathy without signs of inflammation, which may obscure the diagnosis. Such presentation may be misdiagnosed, which may result in delayed treatment and poor outcome.

Clinical Usefulness of the Revised International Workshop for Ocular Sarcoidosis Criteria in Korean Patients

Purpose: To compare differences between the original criteria for diagnosis of ocular sarcoidosis (OS) (first International Workshop for OS [IWOS] 2009) and the revised criteria (sixth IWOS 2017), and their clinical usefulness when assessing OS in Korean patients. Methods: We analyzed patients with suspected OS who visited our tertiary referral ophthalmological and pulmonary clinic from 2007 to 2018. We diagnosed patients using both sets of criteria. Blood test and biopsy data (collected by physicians) and slit-lamp, fundus, and fluorescein angiography data (collected by ophthalmologists) were reviewed. Results: Thirty-four patients were diagnosed using both criteria. Of 32 patients who underwent biopsies, 31 had OS (96.87%). Using either set of criteria, 31 patients were diagnosed with definite OS and two with presumed OS. One patient diagnosed with possible OS using the previous criteria was diagnosed with presumed OS using the revised criteria. The new criteria add the lysozyme level, the CD4/CD8 ratio, and positron emission tomography imaging data to the old criteria and add the descriptors “presumed OS” and “probable OS”. There is no need to use the revised criteria in Korea; the biopsy and imaging data are adequately diagnostic. Conclusions: IWOS revised the OS diagnostic criteria by adding new parameters. However, this was unnecessary for Korea, where the biopsy and imaging data are adequately diagnostic.

Sarcoidosis presenting as bilateral lacrimal gland swelling: a pediatric case report

BACKGROUND

To describe a case of pediatric sarcoidosis which initially presented as papillary conjunctivitis before manifesting as bilateral lacrimal gland swelling without other known systemic involvement.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 10-year-old female presented to the pediatric ophthalmology clinic with complaints of bilateral eyelid swelling, tearing and itching for approximately 1 month. Her history and exam were most consistent with allergic conjunctivitis, for which she was started on a standard topical regimen. Despite initial improvement, she re-presented with significantly worsened eyelid swelling and minimal allergic symptoms. Enlargement of the lacrimal glands were palpable at this time. Lacrimal gland biopsy was obtained which demonstrated noncaseating granulomas. Systemic workup did not reveal evidence of disease involvement elsewhere.

CONCLUSIONS

Sarcoidosis in the pediatric population may present in a myriad of ways and is well-known to mimic other disease entities. We present a case of pediatric sarcoidosis which presented initially as papillary conjunctivitis before manifesting as bilateral lacrimal gland swelling without systemic involvement.

Classification Criteria for Sarcoidosis-Associated Uveitis

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to determine classification criteria for sarcoidosis-associated uveitis.

DESIGN

Machine learning of cases with sarcoid uveitis and 15 other uveitides.

METHODS

Cases of anterior, intermediate, and panuveitides were collected in an informatics-designed preliminary database, and a final database was constructed including cases achieving supermajority agreement on the diagnosis, using formal consensus techniques. Cases were analyzed by anatomic class, and each class was split into a training set and a validation set. Machine learning using multinomial logistic regression was used in the training sets to determine a parsimonious set of criteria that minimized the misclassification rate among the uveitides. The resulting criteria were evaluated in the validation sets.

RESULTS

A total of 1,083 cases of anterior uveitides, 589 cases of intermediate uveitides, and 1,012 cases of panuveitides, including 278 cases of sarcoidosis-associated uveitis, were evaluated by machine learning. Key criteria for sarcoidosis-associated uveitis included a compatible uveitic syndrome of any anatomic class and evidence of sarcoidosis, either 1) tissue biopsy results demonstrating non-caseating granulomata or 2) bilateral hilar adenopathy on chest imaging. The overall accuracy of the diagnosis of sarcoidosis-associated uveitis in the validation set was 99.7% (95% confidence interval: 98.8-99.9). The misclassification rates for sarcoidosis-associated uveitis in the training sets were 3.2% in anterior uveitis, 2.6% in intermediate uveitis, and 1.2% in panuveitis; in the validation sets, the misclassification rates were 0% in anterior uveitis, 0% in intermediate uveitis, and 0% in panuveitis.

CONCLUSIONS

The criteria for sarcoidosis-associated uveitis had a low misclassification rate and appeared to perform sufficiently well for use in clinical and translational research.

Immunopathophysiology and clinical impact of uveitis in inflammatory rheumatic diseases: An update

BACKGROUND

Uveitis is one of the most frequent ophthalmologic manifestations in rheumatology. Uveal inflammation can underlie a systemic inflammatory rheumatic disease (SIRD) in approximately 30% of cases with a significant burden on the quality of life since it represents a cause of blindness in up to 20% of cases in Western countries.

METHODS

In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the pathophysiology of uveitis associated with SIRDs. According to our literature survey on the epidemiology of uveitis among SIRDs, spondyloarthritides, Behçet's disease and sarcoidosis get the major impact.

RESULTS

In Behçet's uveitis, the key players are highly polarized Th1 and Th17 lymphocytes, natural killer T cells and γδ T cells. All contribute to a great destructive inflammatory environment with the most serious visual damage resulting from the involvement of the posterior segment of the eye. In contrast, spondyloarthritides-related uveitis derives from a complex interaction between genetic background and extra-ocular inflammatory mediators originating from enthesitis, arthritis, psoriatic lesions and microbiome pro-inflammatory alterations. In such conditions, the immune infiltration of CD4+ T cells, Th17 and natural killer cells along with pro-inflammatory cytokines, TNF-α among all, leads to intraocular inflammation. Lastly, granuloma formation represents the primary hallmark lesion in sarcoid uveitis. This suggests a profound link between the innate system that mainly recruits activated macrophages and adaptive system involving by Th1, Th17 and Th17.1 cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Awareness among rheumatologists of a potential severe ocular involvement generates new insights into targeted therapeutic approaches and personalized treatments for each patient.

Evaluation of Lamina Cribrosa by Using Enhanced Depth Imaging Optical Coherence Tomography in Ocular Sarcoidosis during Quiescent Phase

SIGNIFICANCE

Enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography is a useful method to allow for the evaluation of deep ocular structures, such as choroid and lamina cribrosa (LC), which are affected by ocular diseases. We hypothesized that choroidal and optic nerve inflammation in patients with ocular sarcoidosis (OS) might affect the LC structure.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to evaluate changes in the LC and anterior LC depth (ALCD) in patients with OS.

METHODS

Forty-eight eyes of 26 patients with OS who received the treatment of panuveitis and were in the quiescent phase for at least 6 months were included in the study. Thirty healthy subjects' randomly selected eyes were selected as a control group. Eyes with OS were divided into two subgroups according to the presence (OS eyes with glaucoma [OSWG], n = 23) or absence of glaucoma (OS eyes without glaucoma [OSWOG], n = 25). The LC thickness, ALCD, and peripapillary choroidal thickness were measured using enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography in eyes with OS and in controls.

RESULTS

The mean LC thickness was found significantly thinner in both OSWG and OSWOG eyes compared with the healthy controls (P < .001 and P = .001, respectively). The mean ALCD was found significantly higher in OSWG eyes (462 ± 65 μm) compared with OSWOG eyes (417 ± 58 μm) and the healthy control eyes (397 ± 59 μm; P = .03 and P = .001, respectively). The average peripapillary choroidal thickness was found to be significantly thinner in OSWG eyes compared with the control eyes (P = .05).

CONCLUSIONS

The present study revealed that OS is associated with a thinned LC independent of the presence of glaucoma. The degenerative changes in the LC, which is the transition point of the retinal nerve fibers, may cause long-term visual dysfunction in OS. These degenerative changes should be prevented by controlling inflammation with early diagnosis and treatment in patients with OS.

Extrapulmonary sarcoidosis with a focus on cardiac, nervous system, and ocular involvement

Sarcoidosis is a poorly understood granulomatous disease that involves the lungs and/or intrathoracic lymph nodes in more than 90% of cases. Although pulmonary sarcoidosis is the leading cause of mortality in this disease, this review focuses on three sites of extrapulmonary involvement (heart, nervous system, and eyes), since involvement of any of these sites can be catastrophic, leading to death, debilitation, or blindness. Patients with cardiac, ocular and neurosarcoidosis necessitate a multidisciplinary approach with careful and long-term follow-up. Prompt diagnosis with imaging and/or biopsy and treatment is required to avoid irreversible damage. Corticosteroids are the mainstay of therapy and are often associated with rapid and durable remissions. Immunosuppressive or biologic agents are reserved for patients failing or experiencing side effects from steroids. Managing sarcoidosis requires vigilance, judgement, and awareness of the vagaries of this fascinating disease.

Surgical Outcomes of Contrast Sensitivity and Visual Acuity in Uveitis-Associated Cataract

Purpose

To evaluate the pre- and post-operative outcomes of phacoemulsification in patients with uveitis-associated cataract in remission, such as conventional visual acuity (VA), photopic and mesopic contrast visual acuity (CVA), and flares in the anterior chamber objectively assessed as intraocular inflammation.

Patients and Methods

This prospective study included 26 eyes of 19 patients with uveitis and 45 eyes of 26 controls who underwent cataract surgery at the Kyushu University Hospital and Kyushu Medical Center in Fukuoka, Japan, from October 2016 to December 2018. Conventional VA and flare values in the anterior chamber were evaluated preoperatively and 1 and 3 months postoperatively. Photopic and mesopic CVAs were assessed preoperatively and 3 months postoperatively.

Results

The best-corrected VA (BCVA) was improved significantly from baseline to 1 and 3 months postoperatively in both groups (P < 0.01 in both groups). The mean preoperative 100% and 10% CVAs under the photopic condition were significantly lower in the uveitis group than in the control group (P < 0.05 for both CVA), whereas the mean preoperative 100% CVA under the mesopic condition was comparable between the two groups. Although the mean preoperative 100% and 10% CVAs improved significantly from baseline under both photopic and mesopic conditions in both groups (P < 0.01 in both groups), the postoperative contrast sensitivities under both photopic and mesopic conditions remained lower in the uveitis group than in the control group (P < 0.01 for both conditions). The postoperative complications included recurrence of active inflammation in five eyes and cystoid macular edema in one eye and were managed by topical steroid therapy alone.

Conclusion

Cataract surgery for uveitis-associated cataracts during remission is well tolerated. However, the present results suggest that amelioration of hemeralopia and/or nyctalopia is not as good as expected after cataract surgery in patients with uveitis.

Cardiac Sarcoidosis Is Uncommon in Patients with Isolated Sarcoid Uveitis: Outcome of 294 Cases

Recently, concerns have been raised about an increased risk of cardiac sarcoidosis in patients with sarcoid uveitis. While cardiac sarcoidosis has a high mortality burden, there is still a lack of precise data on this association. The objective of this study is to describe the frequency and type of cardiac complications associated with sarcoidosis of a large cohort of patients with sarcoid uveitis. We analyzed the cardiac outcomes of a monocentric retrospective cohort of consecutive adults with a diagnosis of sarcoid uveitis between January 2004 and March 2020 in a tertiary French university hospital. A total of 294 patients with a final diagnosis of sarcoid uveitis were included. At final follow-up, seven (2.4%) patients of the cohort had cardiac sarcoidosis. Cardiac sarcoidosis was more frequent among patients with previously reported systemic sarcoidosis (p = 0.008). The prevalence of cardiac sarcoidosis among patients with sarcoid uveitis is low, but patients with previously diagnosed sarcoidosis or those who develop systemic sarcoidosis during follow-up appear to be at increased risk.

Dry eye and Meibomian gland dysfunction evaluation in sarcoidosis patients

PURPOSE

To analyze the relation between Meibomian gland dysfunction, dry eye, and sarcoidosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty eyes of 10 sarcoidosis patients (Group 1) and 20 left eyes of 20 age-sex matched healthy volunteers (Group 2) were included. Presence of dry eye was evaluated with Schirmer 1 test, tear film break-up time (T-BUT), Oxford scale scoring, Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) score assessments. A slit-lamp biomicroscope infrared filter (Topcon, SL-D701, IJssel, The Netherlands) was used to evaluate Meibomian glands. The drop-out ratio according to meibography was scored for each eyelid from grade 0 (no loss) through grade 3 (lost area >2/3 of the total Meibomian gland area).

RESULTS

Among dry eye tests mean Schirmer 1 and T-BUT values were lower and OSDI score was higher in Group 1 compared to Group 2 and the differences were statistically significant (p = 0.017, p = 0.039, p = 0.003, respectively). In addition, the upper, lower and total meiboscores were statistically significantly higher in Group 1 (p = 0.047, p = 0.003, p = 0.005, respectively).

CONCLUSION

A significantly higher presence of dry eye and Meibomian gland drop out ratios was detected in sarcoidosis patients. It is important to monitor sarcoidosis patients for dry eye and Meibomian gland dysfunction and when detected, to treat adequately to prevent ocular surface damage.

Sarcoidosis: A Clinical Overview from Symptoms to Diagnosis

Sarcoidosis is a multi-system disease of unknown etiology characterized by the formation of granulomas in various organs. It affects people of all ethnic backgrounds and occurs at any time of life but is more frequent in African Americans and Scandinavians and in adults between 30 and 50 years of age. Sarcoidosis can affect any organ with a frequency varying according to ethnicity, sex and age. Intrathoracic involvement occurs in 90% of patients with symmetrical bilateral hilar adenopathy and/or diffuse lung micronodules, mainly along the lymphatic structures which are the most affected system. Among extrapulmonary manifestations, skin lesions, uveitis, liver or splenic involvement, peripheral and abdominal lymphadenopathy and peripheral arthritis are the most frequent with a prevalence of 25-50%. Finally, cardiac and neurological manifestations which can be the initial manifestation of sarcoidosis, as can be bilateral parotitis, nasosinusal or laryngeal signs, hypercalcemia and renal dysfunction, affect less than 10% of patients. The diagnosis is not standardized but is based on three major criteria: a compatible clinical and/or radiological presentation, the histological evidence of non-necrotizing granulomatous inflammation in one or more tissues and the exclusion of alternative causes of granulomatous disease. Certain clinical features are considered to be highly specific of the disease (e.g., Löfgren's syndrome, lupus pernio, Heerfordt's syndrome) and do not require histological confirmation. New diagnostic guidelines were recently published. Specific clinical criteria have been developed for the diagnosis of cardiac, neurological and ocular sarcoidosis. This article focuses on the clinical presentation and the common differentials that need to be considered when appropriate.

Orbitopalpebral and ocular sarcoidosis: what does the ophthalmologist need to know

Sarcoidosis is a chronic multisystemic disease of unknown aetiology, characterised by non-caseating granulomas. Ocular involvement rate ranges from 30% to 60% among individuals with sarcoidosis, and can vary widely, making the diagnosis a challenge to the ophthalmologist. Cutaneous manifestations occur in about 22% of sarcoidosis cases, but eyelid involvement is rare. Eyelid swelling and nodules are the most frequent forms of eyelid involvement, but other findings have been reported. The joint analysis of clinical history, ancillary exams and compatible biopsy is needed for the diagnosis, as well as the exclusion of other possible conditions. This review aims to describe the different forms of presentations, the clinical reasoning and treatment options for ocular, eyelid and orbital sarcoidosis.

Multiple Faces of Eyelid Involvement in Sarcoidosis

Purpose: To report three cases of eyelid involvement by sarcoidosis. In one of them, it mimicked a malignant lesion.Methods: Retrospective case reports.Results: A 73-year-old man presented with destruction of the left lower eyelid for 2 years. He had granulomatous uveitis in the left eye. Chest CT scan showed parenchymal abnormalities that could correspond to sarcoidosis. Skin biopsy revealed noncaseating granuloma. Oral and topical corticosteroids resulted in improvement of the condition. A 72-year-old female patient presented with cutaneous infiltration of the left upper eyelid for 1 month. Biopsy was consistent with sarcoidosis. Endobronchial biopsies showed interstitial fibrosis. Oral prednisone improved the condition. A 65-year-old female patient presented with edema of the right upper eyelid for 2 months. Full-thickness biopsy showed granuloma without necrosis. There was an improvement with oral steroid.Conclusion: Although eyelid involvement in sarcoidosis is uncommon, different forms of presentation, including destructive lesions, can be observed.

Genome-Wide Association Study of Ocular Sarcoidosis Confirms HLA Associations and Implicates Barrier Function and Autoimmunity in African Americans

Purpose: Identify genes associated with ocular sarcoidosis (OS).Methods: We genotyped 1.1 million genetic variants to identify significant OS associations, defined as those that achieved p < 5 × 10-8 in a genome-wide comparison of OS cases to healthy controls in our European- or African-American cohorts (EA, AA). Potential functional roles of all associated variants were assessed.Results: Eight significant non-HLA variants were found in AA OS cases compared to healthy controls and confirmed as at least suggestive when comparing OS to non-OS cases. Seven of these were within MAGI1 and include transcription factor binding sites and expression quantitative trait loci. Our EA cohort, while showing similar effect sizes at variants within MAGI1, had no significant variants. Association analysis of HLA-DRB1 alleles confirmed association to OS in EA to *04:01.Conclusion: Our results support organ-specific genetic risk in OS in a compelling candidate, MAGI1, known to be associated with barrier function and autoimmunity.

Sub-Tenon Injection of Triamcinolone Acetonide for Choroidal Mass in Sarcoidosis: A Case Report

Purpose

To report the clinical course of a sub-tenon injection of triamcinolone acetonide for treatment of an asymptomatic choroidal mass in sarcoidosis.

Methods

This was a retrospective, non-comparative interventional case study.

Results

A 36-year-old Japanese man with sarcoidosis presented with an asymptomatic choroidal mass lesion associated with subretinal fluid accumulation in his left eye, but without any other sign of intraocular inflammation in either of his eyes. He had started systemic steroid administration for thrombocytopenia 2 days prior to being examined. After a single sub-tenon injection of triamcinolone acetonide (20 mg) the subretinal fluid was completely absorbed and the choroidal granuloma began to shrink in size. After the injection, the granuloma became a scar without any complication or recurrence over the next 34 months.

Conclusion

Sub-tenon injection of triamcinolone acetonide might be an effective treatment for choroidal granuloma in sarcoidosis.