Racial Influences of Uveitic Glaucoma: Consolidation of Current Knowledge of Diagnosis and Treatment

Abstract

Introduction: The etiology, frequency, manifestation, and treatment of uveitis and uveitic glaucoma are commonly influenced by race.

Materials and methods: This study aims to review the effect of race on the diagnosis and treatment of patients with common diseases of uveitis that may develop into glaucoma.

Results: Race affects the presentation and prevalence of uveitis. Sarcoidosis, for example, is more common in Blacks than in Whites in the United States. Furthermore, Blacks more commonly have anterior segment involvement, while Whites more commonly have posterior segment involvement. In addition, treatments-such as steroid implants and trabeculectomy-in the setting of uveitis and uveitic glaucoma may have higher risk of failure in Black patients.

Discussion: Over the last half-century, we have increased our understanding of the role of race in uveitis and uveitic glaucoma. Major gaps remain and further study is needed.

Keywords: Diagnosis; ethnicity; glaucoma; race; treatment; uveitis.