J Korean Ophthalmol Soc.
1987 Aug;28(4):859-863.
A Case of Acute Uveitis Associated with Ankylosing Spondylitis
- Affiliations
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- 1Department of Ophthalmology, Medical School, Won-Kwang University, Korea.
Abstract
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Ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic, progressive, inflammatory arthritis that affects principally the sacroiliac joints and spine. Approximately 25% of cases are associated with an acute recurrent nongranulomatous iridocyclitis. This disease occurs most frequently in the second and third decades of the life. Males are affected more frequently than females. There is a striking association between this disease and presence of histocompatibility antigen HLA-B27, which is found in only 4% to 9% of controls. The antigen is present in 88% to 96% of those with ankylosing spondylitis and in 55% of those with uveitis. The authors experienced lease of acute recurrent uveitis associated with ankylosing spondylitis in a 47 year old male patient. We performed radiologic and laboratory examinations. Radiologic examinations revealed the massive and diffuse calcification of all paravertebral ligaments showing a "bamboo spine" appearance. Laboratory examinations revealed elevated ESR and positive HLA-B27. We treated him with the systemic and topical steroids and topical mydriatics, and had a good result.