Sarcoidosis.
Sarcoidosis commonly involves the eye, causing uveitis, the lacrimal gland, and the cranial nerves, including the optic nerve itself. Several microorganism types have recently been located in sarcoid granulomas, suggesting an infective cause in predisposed individuals. The approach to diagnosis has been refined, including the use of high-resolution computed tomography of the chest. New ophthalmic manifestations have been described, suggesting a wider role for sarcoidosis in intraocular inflammation, and indocyanine green angiography has clarified choroidal involvement. Immunosuppressive and anticytokine treatments can be effective in severe systemic sarcoidosis and should be considered in sight-threatening disease.
Jones
Nicholas P
NP
Manchester Royal Eye Hospital, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9WH, UK. njones@central.cmht.nwest.nhs.uk
D016207:Cytokines / Q000037:antagonists & inhibitors; D005128:Eye Diseases / Q000209:etiology; D006801:Humans; D007165:Immunosuppression Therapy; D012507:Sarcoidosis / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy*
D016207:Cytokines