Update on clinical characteristics and management of uveitic macular edema

Cystoid macular edema is a complication of uveitis which can lead to severe visual impairment if left untreated. Uveitic macular edema occurs when the balance between the water entering the eye and pumped out of the eye is altered thus losing equilibrium in the physiologic function of the retina. Edema has a negative impact on visual recovery in patients with uveitis and may continue to exist despite control of uveitis. This delayed resolution of edema observed clinically and by imaging is most frequent following intermediate uveitis, birdshot retinochoroidopathy, sarcoid uveitis, panuveitis, and iridocyclitis associated with human leukocyte antigen B27. Literature about management of uveitic macular edema is limited, and no consensus has been reached with regard to management protocol. Several treatment options exist including corticosteroids, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, immunomodulatory agents, implants, and surgery. These therapies can be administered through various routes such as oral, topical, periocular, or intravitreal injections. A response to treatment is seen as decrease in macular thickness and improvement in visual acuity.