Biologic Therapy For Ocular Inflammatory Diseases: An Update
Journal Title: International Journal of Ophthalmology & Eye Science (IJOES) - Year 2013, Vol 1, Issue 1
Abstract
Uveitis comprehends a wide and heterogeneous group of intraocular inflammatory conditions potentially sight-threatening and variable therapeutic strategies have been proposed. Classical treatment with steroids and conventional immunosuppressive agents is often used as first-step. However, a number of patients may not respond properly or tolerate these medications with well-known side effects. Over the last two decades, advances in the understanding of the pathogenesis of autoimmune uveitis, as well as improved biotechnology, have enabled the development of a new class of drugs called biologics, which provide selective targeting of the immune mediators of the inflammation cascade. Biologic therapies were introduced as a new option for patients with autoimmune rheumatic conditions refractory to conventional therapy and due to their success have posteriorly been used in ophthalmology to treat ocular inflammatory disorders. These new agents may potentially provide more effective and less toxic treatment than conventional therapy. Biologic therapies include a wide variety of drugs with different mechanisms of action, including monoclonal antibodies against cell surface markers, cytokines and their receptors, or recombinant forms of natural inhibitory molecules. Although some results are based on investigations with insufficient clinical trials, the majority of biologics indicate preferable outcomes on refractory uveitis, with remarkable promise to increase the possibility of long-term remission. The development of these new drugs is one of the most revolutionary advances in recent years, and the promise of shifting paradigms makes it an exciting time for uveitis specialists worldwide.
Authors and Affiliations
Marina Mesquida
Visual Outcomes of Manual, Small-Incision Cataract Surgery in Patients with Coexisting Corneal Opacity
Purpose: The purpose of this study was to analyze the relationship between corneal opacity and vision acuity in patients with cataracts and coexisting corneal opacity by calculating the area of corneal opacities in the o...
p53 Expression in Pterygium Amongst Natives of High Versus Low Altitude
Purpose: To evaluate and compare the p53 gene expression in pterygia excised from natives of high and low altitudes. Methods: This prospective randomised interventional study, including 40 eyes (40 pterygia) of 40 patien...
5- Fluorouracil Versus Triamcinolone Injection in the Management of Periocular Scars
Purpose: The purpose of our study was to compare the effects of intralesional 5 Fluorouracil versus Triamcinolone injection for the modulation of periocular scar formation and wound contracture. Methods: Prospective inte...
Study of Ocular Manifestations in Patients Hospitalized with Dengue Fever
Pterygium is an uncontrolled fibrovascular overgrowth of the conjunctiva of the eye seen with a higher prevalence at areas near the equator. It has a high rate of recurrence which are usually more aggressive and difficul...
Demographic Characteristics of Normal Tension Glaucoma Seen in a Suburban Tertiary Hospital
Introduction: Normal Tension Glaucoma (NTG) is a form of glaucoma in which there are distinct demographic characteristics and associated factors to its development. Identifying these characteristics helps early diagnosis...