Uveitis (inflammation inside the eye) is not an uncommon complication of spondylitis, and about 40% of people with spondylitis will experience it at least once.

In contrast, about 20% of juveniles who have juvenile ankylosing spondylitis will also develop uveitis.

Uveitis is a potentially serious complication and requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms often occur in one eye at a time, and they may include redness, pain, sensitivity to light and skewed vision. An ophthalmologist can use a special slit lamp microscope to distinguish uveitis from other causes of eye redness or irritation.

According to a recent study entitled, "Adalimumab [Humira ®] in the therapy of uveitis in childhood", chronic uveitis in children often "takes a serious course."

Although commonly treated with corticosteroid eyedrops and dilating agent eyedrops, and, according to the study, "Despite various immunosuppressive drugs some children do not respond sufficiently and there is a high risk of them becoming seriously disabled."

The results of the study showed that Humira ®, "was effective or mildly effective against the arthritis in 81% [of the children involved in the study], but in uveitis in 88%." However, "The necessary dosage and the treatment period, which probably have to be defined individually for each patient, remain unclear."

You can read the study abstract by clicking here.

For more information on juvenile spondyloarthritis and uveitis/iritis, we offer free brochures on both topics: Click here.

British Journal of Ophthalmology 2007;91:319-324

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