Intermediate uveitis in childhood preceding the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis: a 13-year follow-up.

Abstract

An association between multiple sclerosis during childhood and uveitis is exceptionally rare. This is a report of a female patient who presented at the age of 8 years with bilateral intermediate uveitis and whose final diagnosis of multiple sclerosis was made at age 21 years. Case report. Retrospective chart review of a 13-year follow-up history. Over 10 years our patient was treated systemically and underwent bilateral vitrectomy to reduce permanent side effects. Owing to good visual function and low inflammatory signs, systemic therapy was stopped. Multiple sclerosis was diagnosed at the age of 21, after a 13-year history of uveitis and after 3 years without medication. In the constellation of uveitis in childhood and later diagnosis of multiple sclerosis, the outlined therapy provided good functional results. Moreover, it may have delayed the manifestation of the underlying disease for 13 years.