Interferon therapy for ocular disease.
OBJECTIVE
Interferons were first known for their antiviral action. Immunomodulatory therapy with interferons has been studied in various diseases. This paper summarizes the role and presumed mechanisms of action of type 1 interferons in the treatment of ocular disease.


RESULTS
Preliminary data show beneficial effects of interferons in ocular disease such as Behçet disease and multiple sclerosis-associated uveitis in terms of visual acuity, intraocular inflammation activity, and chronic macular edema. Another mode of application is topical as an adjuvant treatment in viral keratitis or ocular surface malignancies.


CONCLUSIONS
Interferons are gaining a place in the treatment of ocular disease. Evidence is growing of their potential in ocular Behçet disease and multiple sclerosis-associated uveitis. Randomized, controlled clinical trials are needed to confirm this observation. Further insights into the complex mechanisms of action of interferons in health and disease will increase understanding of their mechanisms of action as a therapeutic substance.
Mackensen
Friederike
F
Department of Ophthalmology, Interdisciplinary Uveitis Center, University of Heidelberg, Germany.
Max
Regina
R
Becker
Matthias D
MD
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D005128:Eye Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000276:immunology; D006801:Humans; D007111:Immunity, Cellular / Q000187:drug effects; D007372:Interferons / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents; D007372:Interferons