Case Series and Literature Review of Ophthalmologic Disorders Seen in a Specialist Rheumatology Clinic in Lagos, Nigeria. (18th August 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Adelowo, Olufemi O.; Akpabio, Akpabio A.; Oderinlo, Olufemi; Okonkwo, Ogugua N.; Raphael, John
• Is Part Of: Ocular immunology and inflammation. Volume 27:Number 6(2019)
• Page Start: 905
• Page End: 911
• Publication Date: 2019-08-18
• Subjects: Autoimmune eye disease -- ophthalmic disorders -- outcomes -- pattern -- rheumatology clinic referrals; Eye -- Diseases -- Immunological aspects -- Periodicals; Eye -- Inflammation -- Periodicals; 617.7
• DOI: 10.1080/09273948.2019.1611873
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0927-3948

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Purpose : To highlight the pattern and treatment outcomes of ophthalmologic disorders referred to a private specialist rheumatology clinic. Methods : Retrospective review (January 2015–December 2016) of referrals from Eye Foundation Hospital, Lagos to Arthrimed Specialist Clinic, Lagos. Case records were retrieved and relevant information extracted. Ethical standards were observed. Results : Twenty-two referrals (35 eyes) were received out of 643 patients (3.4%) seen during the study period. The majority were female (63.6%) with mean age 48.9 ± 19.3 years and bilateral disease (59%). Diagnoses included uveitis (45.5%), optic neuritis (36.4%), non-specific autoimmune eye disease (9.1%), keratoconjunctivitis sicca (4.5%), and giant cell arteritis (4.5%). Treatment was with steroids and immunosuppressive agents. Fourteen patients improved (63.6%), five remained unchanged (22.7%), while three worsened (13.6%). Conclusions : Our patients were mostly fourth-decade females with bilateral disease. Uveitis was the commonest presentation, and two-thirds of the treated patients improved after treatment. Early specialist referral and co-management of severe autoimmune eye diseases are desirable.