Management of sympathetic ophthalmia with the fluocinolone acetonide implant.
OBJECTIVE
We examined whether implantation of the fluocinolone acetonide (Retisert) implant achieved control of inflammation and a reduced need for oral corticosteroids or immunosuppressives in patients with sympathetic ophthalmia (SO).


METHODS
Retrospective, noncomparative case series.


METHODS
Eight patients with active SO.


METHODS
The results of fluocinolone acetonide implantation in 8 patients with active SO were studied with a follow-up period of 6 months to 2 years.


METHODS
Presence or absence of intraocular inflammation, visual acuity, intraocular pressure, need for further surgery, and the need for additional use of oral or locally injected corticosteroids and/or immunosuppressives.


RESULTS
All patients demonstrated a significant reduction in the systemic medication required to maintain control of inflammation. Two patients had recurrent inflammatory episodes requiring the resumption of an oral immunosuppressive. Vision improved or was stabilized in all 8 patients.


CONCLUSIONS
The fluocinolone acetonide implant provides inflammatory control and reduces the dependence on systemic immunosuppression in patients with SO.
Mahajan
Vinit B
VB
Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics, 200 Hawkins Drive, Iowa City, Iowa 52242, USA.
Gehrs
Karen M
KM
Goldstein
Debra A
DA
Fischer
David H
DH
Lopez
Juan S
JS
Folk
James C
JC
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D004343:Drug Implants; D005260:Female; D005446:Fluocinolone Acetonide / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D005938:Glucocorticoids / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D006801:Humans; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D007429:Intraocular Pressure; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009879:Ophthalmia, Sympathetic / Q000188:drug therapy*; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014792:Visual Acuity
D004343:Drug Implants; D005938:Glucocorticoids; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents; D005446:Fluocinolone Acetonide