Etanercept monotherapy induces complete resolution of cystoid macular edema in a patient with intermediate uveitis.

Background: There is controversy on whether etanercept, an anti-tissue necrosis factor agent, shares infliximab's purported efficacy in the treatment of intermediate uveitis and, in particular, intermediate uveitis-associated cystoid macular edema.

Methods: Interventional case report.

Results: A 29-year-old patient with decreased vision bilaterally secondary to cystoid macular edema complicating chronic idiopathic intermediate uveitis refractory to oral corticosteroids, methotrexate (17.5 mg weekly), and cyclosporine (100 mg daily) started etanercept monotherapy with rapid and complete resolution of cystoid macular edema and dramatic improvement in visual acuity.

Conclusions: Etanercept may have a role in the treatment of refractory intermediate uveitis and intermediate uveitis-associated cystoid macular edema.