Corneal light scattering and anterior segment findings in rheumatoid arthritis patients: a prospective study on disease monitoring

Abstract

Aim: To evaluate changes in corneal light scattering and anterior segment parameters in newly diagnosed rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients who achieved remission with systemic treatment, compared to healthy controls.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital, in ophthalmology, and rheumatology departments. A total of 42 RA patients (13 men and 29 women) and 56 healthy individuals (23 men 33 women) underwent comprehensive ophthalmologic evaluations, including Scheimpflug corneal densitometry and Pentacam HR measurements. Those who initiated systemic treatment for RA were monitored at first, third, and sixth-month follow-ups. Participants who achieved remission at each follow-up assessment were included.

Results: Significant differences in corneal densitometry were observed, with higher values in RA patients, particularly in the middle and posterior layers. Anterior segment parameters such as anterior chamber volume and angle were significantly reduced in RA patients compared to other groups (P<0.001). Following systemic treatment and achievement of remission, these parameters showed regression toward normal values.

Conclusion: The study underscores the potential utility of corneal densitometry and anterior segment analysis as sensitive indicators of subclinical ocular involvement in RA, offering insights into disease progression and treatment efficacy. These findings highlight the importance of early detection and regular monitoring in preventing vision-threatening complications in RA patients.

Keywords: anterior segment; corneal densitometry; corneal light scattering; disease monitoring; remission; rheumatoid arthritis; systemic treatment.