Uveitis in seronegative arthritis

Abstract

Uveitis is the most frequent extra-articular feature in seronegative arthritis and is part of the classification criteria for spondyloarthritis. Recent studies confirm a prevalence of up to one third of patients with spondyloarthritis and a relationship with HLA-B27 and disease duration. In recent forms of the disease, a relation with infectious episodes, inflammatory bowel disease, and cervical spine involvement has been reported. Many data argue for the implication of the IL23/IL17 pathway in uveitis, already obvious in spondyloarthritis. Studies with NSAIDs, DMARDs, and anti-TNF agents demonstrated the ability of these treatments to reduce the incidence of flares of uveitis in spondyloarthritis. Only a few data are available with other biologic agents. New onset of uveitis during anti-TNF therapy has been reported. The Il-17 blockade may be a new option for treating both uveitis and the underlying rheumatic condition.