Visual and treatment outcomes of tubercular uveitis: a prospective case series from a referral hospital in Pakistan

OBJECTIVE: Pakistan is the fifth highest TB burden country. Tuberculous uveitis (TbU) is a form of extrapulmonary TB, that is not uncommon in high burden country but very limited data is available on its outcome. The aim of the study is to assess the outcome of TbU with anti-tuberculous treatment (ATT). RESULTS: A prospective study was conducted at Jinnah Medical College Hospital (JMCH) Karachi, Pakistan from July to December 2017. Patients with suspected TbU were started on standard ATT chemotherapy for 12 months. Their response was assessed via slit lamp examination and visual acuity at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months of treatment. Forty patients with probable TbU were treated with ATT, mean age was 36 ± 3 years and 24 (60%) were females. Around 26 (65%) had Monteux test of 15 mm or more. History of TB contact was positive in 24 (60%) and 12 (30%) had previous history of TB. All patients complained for blurring of vision and floaters. Posterior uveitis seen in 36 (90%) of patients. Complete response achieved in 32 (80%) after ATT while 6 (14%) had changed in inflammation and 2 (6%) had no benefit.