UVEITIS ASSOCIATED WITH JUVENILE IDIOPATHIC ARTHRITIS

Key words: Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), Uveitis, Diagnosis, Complication, Immunosuppressive treatment

Uveitis is a frequent complication of rheumatic diseases, and represents one of the main causes of visual loss in the pediatric age. In 80% of the cases anterior uveitis is associated with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) and is chronic and asymptomatic, with severe complications if undiagnosed. The most severe forms can be complicated by synechiae, glaucoma, cataract, band keratopathy, cystoid macular edema and ultimately loss of vision in a proportion of patients ranging from 15% to 40%. Early diagnosis and management of intraocular inflammation can reduce the incidence of complications and improve the visual outcome. The characterization of early predictors of uveitis is crucial in order to identify, at the onset of JIA, patients at high risk for developing severe uveitis and who need early initiation of immunosuppressive treatment. The role of the pediatrician in the early diagnosis of JIA and in its management through close collaboration with rheumatologists and ophthalmologists is essential to optimize treatment and improve prognosis.