Dexamethasone intravitreal implants in the management of tubercular multifocal serpiginoid choroiditis

J Ophthalmic Inflamm Infect. 2016 Dec;6(1):31. doi: 10.1186/s12348-016-0101-4. Epub 2016 Aug 30.

Abstract

Background: Continuous progression of lesions despite an adequate treatment has been described in tubercular multifocal serpiginoid choroiditis. Reported treatments for this paradoxical response include systemic steroids, immunosuppressive drugs, and intravitreal methotrexate. We describe the use of dexamethasone intravitreal implants in a patient presenting with this condition.

Findings: A 46-year-old woman sought medical attention for scotomas in her left eye. Tests suggested multifocal serpiginoid choroiditis associated with latent tuberculosis infection, and hence, she was started on anti-tuberculosis drugs in combination with corticosteroids. Given that lesions progressed despite this treatment, we began treatment with dexamethasone intravitreal implants. After injection of the second implant, we succeeded in inactivating the inflammatory process.

Conclusions: Dexamethasone intravitreal implants may be a suitable alternative to systemic steroids or immunosuppressive therapy in the management of continuous progression of lesions in tubercular multifocal serpiginoid choroiditis.

Keywords: Dexamethasone intravitreal implant; Multifocal serpiginoid choroiditis; OZURDEX; Tuberculous uveitis; Uveitis.