Pediatric uveitis is a complex and heterogeneous condition with significant implications for visual development and long-term outcomes. This study presents the epidemiological and clinical profile of pediatric uveitis patients at a tertiary care center in North India, based on data collected from January 2006 to March 2015. A total of 182 children met the criteria for pediatric uveitis (age <16 years), with 104 enrolled in this analysis due to a minimum one-year follow-up requirement. The cohort included 54 females (51.9%) and 50 males, indicating a slight female predominance. Bilateral involvement was equally common, with 72 children presenting with bilateral disease. The mean duration of symptoms prior to diagnosis was 5.6 ± 3.24 months, reflecting delayed presentation—a key factor contributing to irreversible complications. The mean follow-up period was 3.40 ± 2.34 years (median: 3 years), allowing for meaningful assessment of disease progression and treatment outcomes. In terms of clinical classification, anterior uveitis was the most prevalent form (57.45%, n = 77 eyes), followed by panuveitis (24.04%, n = 44), posterior uveitis (22.12%, n = 38), and intermediate uveitis (8.65%, n = 16). These patterns differ significantly from Western literature, where posterior and intermediate uveitis are more common, suggesting regional variations in etiology and disease expression. Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) emerged as the leading cause of anterior uveitis (57.45% of cases), consistent with global trends but particularly prominent in this population. In contrast, no identifiable cause was found in 88.89% of intermediate uveitis cases, highlighting diagnostic challenges in this subgroup. Tuberculosis was the predominant etiology in both posterior uveitis (39.13%) and panuveitis (28%), underscoring its role as a major infectious trigger in endemic regions. Other causes included toxoplasmosis, sarcoidosis, and autoimmune conditions, while 15% of cases were classified as idiopathic. Synechiae were the most frequent clinical sign overall, observed in 59.7% of anterior uveitis eyes, 45.45% of panuveitis eyes, and less commonly in other forms. Visual acuity at baseline revealed that 58.4% of eyes had low vision (BCVA ≤6/18), with 21.4% classified as blind (≤3/60). At final follow-up, 33.1% remained with low vision, and 12.9% were blind—indicating persistent visual impairment despite treatment. Notably, 11 children were non-cooperative for visual testing at baseline, but only one remained uncooperative at follow-up, suggesting improved cooperation over time or developmental maturation. Laboratory investigations included complete blood counts, inflammatory markers, tuberculin skin tests, IFN-γ release assays, serologic testing for infections, and HLA typing when indicated.Maspin Antibody Biological Activity Aqueous or vitreous taps were performed in atypical or refractory cases.ZNF449 Antibody custom synthesis Imaging modalities such as OCT, fundus fluorescein angiography, ultrasound biomicroscopy, and visual field testing were utilized where feasible.PMID:35045872 Diagnosis of intraocular tuberculosis followed established criteria.
In summary, pediatric uveitis in North India is characterized by a high prevalence of anterior uveitis linked to JIA and tuberculosis, delayed presentation, and substantial visual morbidity. The burden of complications—including cataract, glaucoma, maculopathy, and amblyopia—remains significant. Early diagnosis, prompt initiation of targeted therapy, and long-term monitoring are critical to preserving vision in this vulnerable population. These findings highlight the need for region-specific guidelines and enhanced awareness among primary care providers to reduce delays in referral and management.MedChemExpress (MCE) offers a wide range of high-quality research chemicals and biochemicals (novel life-science reagents, reference compounds and natural compounds) for scientific use. We have professionally experienced and friendly staff to meet your needs. We are a competent and trustworthy partner for your research and scientific projects.Related websites: https://www.medchemexpress.com
