OCULAR MANIFESTATIONS OF RHEUMATIC DISEASES

The eye is an important indicator of rheumatologic disease. A wide variety of ophthalmic clinical manifestations exist including inflammation of the cornea, conjunctiva, lacrimal gland, episclera, sclera, uvea (including anterior, intermediate, and posterior uveitis), and ophthalmic blood vessels.
Clinical Features
The most common presenting signs include dry eye , eye pain, photophobia, decreased vision, burning, itching, watering (epiphora), and redness. Various ocular signs and symptoms are characteristic of different rheumatologic diseases

Eye Manifestation Rheumatologic Associations
Dry eyes and mouth Sjögren’s syndrome
Rheumatoid arthritis
Uveitis Reactive arthritis
Psoriatic arthritis
AS
Vasculitis
Scleritis, episcleritis RA
Vasculitis
Relapsing polychondritis

Treatment
It requires a multidisciplinary approach in collaboration with ophthalmologist. Early diagnosis and prompt intervention helps in preventing visual loss. Treatment may include glucocorticoids either oral, IV or topical along with other immunosuppressive drugs.