Longitudinal study of anterior segment inflammation by ultrasound biomicroscopy in patients with acute anterior uveitis.

Objective: This study aimed to investigate dynamic changes in the anterior segment in patients with acute anterior uveitis (AAU) using ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM).

Methods: Acute anterior uveitis was diagnosed in 18 patients according to history and ocular examinations. Ultrasound biomicroscopy was performed and the results at three time-points (within 2 weeks of the uveitis attack, and at 2-4 weeks and 6 weeks after it) were analysed. The relationships between clinical manifestations and UBM findings were also evaluated.

Results: All investigated AAU patients showed severe ciliary injection, numerous dust keratic precipitates (KPs), aqueous flare and inflammatory cells, and were treated predominantly with corticosteroid and cycloplegic eyedrops. Ultrasound biomicroscopy showed a large number of cells in the anterior and posterior chamber, marked oedema and exudates in and around the iris and ciliary body within 2 weeks of AAU onset. These abnormalities were dramatically improved at 2-4 weeks and almost resolved at 6 weeks and thereafter.

Conclusions: Ultrasound biomicroscopy reveals severe inflammatory changes in and around the ciliary body in patients with AAU. These signs rapidly resolve upon treatment.