Clinical profile of uveitis in leprosy in a cohort of patients in Egypt

Purpose

The main aim of this study was to evaluate different clinical presentations and complications of leprosy associated uveitis in Egyptian patients.

Methods

A multicenter retrospective, observational case series. Patients presented to tertiary uveitis referral centers from different parts of Egypt. Diagnosis of leprosy was made based on clinical presentation and was confirmed by biopsy.

Results

The cohort included nine patients. Five cases had multibacillary leprosy and four had paucibacillary leprosy. Anterior uveitis was the most common clinical presentation. Delay in the onset of uveitis was noted in 3 patients after being off systemic antimicrobial therapy (4 months to 14 years).

Conclusion

Leprosy-related uveitis remains a significant cause of ocular morbidity despite being a relative rare cause of uveitis. Anterior segment involvement is more common than posterior segment in our group of patients. Uveitis may appear months to years after completion of systemic therapy. Early diagnosis, aggressive anti-inflammatory treatment, and long-term monitoring even after completion of therapy are essential to prevent irreversible vision loss.