Laser tyndallometry and treatment-monitoring in 20 children with juvenile uveitis

Background: Treatment of children with juvenile uveitis requires adequate c ontrol of inflammation while minimizing systemic or ocular side effects. Th e study was performed to evaluate the potential use of the laser flare-cell meter in monitoring and adjustment of therapy in juvenile uveitis. Patients and methods: Retrospectively, we monitored 20 children (11 girls a nd 9 boys) with an age range from 3 to 15 years presenting with juvenile ir idocyclitis (10/20), intermediate (5/20) or posterior (5/20) uveitis. Durin g the follow-up period (median 25.2 months, range: 2 to 83 months) multiple clinical controls were performed. We recorded clinical data, present thera py, and measurements using the laser flare-cell meter (Kowa FC-1000). Results: Laser flare-cell meter measurements were easily obtained and highl y reliable even in these young patients. During follow-up, 36 recurrences o f intraocular inflammation were detected in 19 eyes. Relapses of inflammati on as well as a response to treatment were seen at an early stage. Semiquan titative observations of cells and aqueous flare in the anterior chamber, o r Visual acuity of patients were less reliable in predicting recurrences. Conclusions: Laser tyndallometry offers a reliable, examiner-independent me thod to assess intraocular inflammation in children with juvenile uveitis a nd to adjust the necessary treatment.