Abatacept for refractory juvenile idiopathic arthritis-associated uveitis- a case report.

Abstract

To the Editor: Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is a well recognized cause of uveitis in childhood. The overall prevalence of JIA-associated uveitis has been reported to be as high as 34%1. Uveitis is characterized by anterior chamber cellular infiltration and aqueous flare. Severe vision-compromising complications such as cataracts, iritis, band keratopathy, posterior synechiae, hypotony, and glaucoma occur in more than 30% of affected individuals and may result in blindness1. Topical corticosteroids are the mainstay of treatment for uveitis; however, prolonged topical use may result in cataracts or glaucoma, while protracted systemic use has significant side effects. Treatment options also include…