Bilateral Involvement in Childhood Presumed Trematode Induced Granulomatous Anterior Uveitis

Abstract

Purpose: This study aims to elucidate the clinical spectrum of trematode-induced uveitis (TIU), with a particular focus on its bilateral presentation and providing significant insights into its pathophysiology.

Methods: A prospective cross-sectional observational study was conducted at the uveitis outpatient clinic of Mansoura University Ophthalmic Center. The study involved children diagnosed with presumed TIU. Comprehensive clinical evaluations were performed, including detailed history taking and thorough ophthalmological examinations of both the anterior and posterior segments, emphasizing the unaffected fellow eye.

Results: The cohort consisted of 80 children, with a male predominance of 98.75%. The proportion of bilateral involvement was observed in 12 out of 80 (15%). The involvement of the fellow eye was observed as follows: conjunctival hyperemia (3/80), conjunctival phlycten-like lesions (3/80), ciliary injection (10/80), corneal immune infiltration (4/80), retro-corneal membrane (5/80), anterior chamber granuloma (5/80), peripheral anterior synechiae (3/80), complicated cataract (2/80), diffuse cyclitis and choroid thickening (12/80), and intermediate uveitis (11/80).

Conclusion: This study demonstrates that TIU is not confined to the initially affected eye; the fellow eye may also be affected in a significant number of cases. Therefore, it is crucial to conduct thorough examinations of both eyes in patients diagnosed with TIU to ensure comprehensive clinical management.

Keywords: Bilateral uveitis; childhood; paediatric uveitis; trematode-induced uveitis.