HLA-B27-associated uveitis: overview and current perspectives

Abstract

Purpose of review: To review current knowledge about the pathogenesis, clinical presentation, and treatment of HLA-B27-associated uveitis, which is the most commonly identified cause of uveitis in community-based practice and an important cause of ocular morbidity.

Recent findings: Significant advances have been made in understanding the pathogenesis of HLA-B27-associated ocular and systemic disease, especially with regard to the genetic underpinning of these diseases. Increasing attention has also been focused on the use of alternative therapies in the treatment of HLA-B27-associated uveitis, with special attention to sulfa class antibiotics, historically have been used to treat the articular manifestations of the spondyloarthritides, and newer drugs that inhibit tumor necrosis factor-alpha.

Summary: The next several years promise to yield exciting new advances in understanding of the genetic epidemiology and treatment of HLA-B27-associated uveitis.