OPHTHALMOLOGICAL COMPLICATIONS IN PATIENTS WITH JUVENILE IDIOPATHIC ARTHRITIS: SURGICAL TREATMENT OF CHRONIC UVEITIS

Abstract

Introduction: Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects children and can result in ophthalmological complications, with chronic uveitis being one of the most significant. This condition is characterized by inflammation of the uvea, which can lead to vision loss if not treated appropriately. Uveitis in patients with JIA presents particularities, such as its initial asymptomatic nature, making early diagnosis difficult. Surgical treatment is an option considered when clinical approaches are not sufficient to control inflammation or preserve vision, highlighting the importance of an in-depth analysis of the efficacy and safety of surgical interventions. Objective: To analyze the available evidence on ophthalmological complications in patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis, focusing on the surgical treatment of chronic uveitis. Methodology: The methodology followed the PRISMA checklist, with searches being carried out in the PubMed, Scielo and Web of Science databases. Five descriptors were used: "juvenile idiopathic arthritis", "uveitis", "surgical treatment", "ophthalmologic complications" and "pediatric patients". Inclusion criteria included articles published in the last ten years, studies that addressed patients with JIA and research that detailed surgical treatments for uveitis. Exclusion criteria were articles that did not present relevant clinical data, literature reviews without analysis of original data and publications that focused on other ophthalmologic conditions. Results: The review revealed that chronic uveitis is a frequent complication in patients with JIA, often associated with an increased risk of visual impairment. Surgical treatment, including vitrectomy and drug implants, has been shown to be effective in refractory cases, improving the quality of life and visual acuity of patients. In addition, preoperative inflammatory control has been shown to be crucial for the success of interventions. Conclusion: Data analysis indicated that ophthalmologic complications, particularly chronic uveitis, represent a significant challenge in patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Surgical treatment may offer effective solutions for severe cases, highlighting the importance of regular ophthalmologic follow-up and a multidisciplinary approach in disease management. The need for increased awareness and continued research was emphasized to optimize ocular health outcomes in these patients.