Dr. ATUL THADANI

DR. PADMAMALINI MAHENDRA DAS, Dr. ANKUSH KAWALI, Prof.ROHIT SHETTY

Abstract

Aim: To determine the cytokine expression profile in tears of patients with uveitis

Methods: Cross sectional study in uveitis patients done in tertiary eye center. Tear inflammatory Biomarkers were assessed using biomarker kit at presentation and correlated with clinical activity.

Results: Age group was between 6-90 yrs (median age 44.5 yrs, 62 males & 74 females). Tear biomarker analysis showed IL-1β, IL-17A, TNFα, MMP9, IL6 and sICAM1 were high in anterior, posterior & panuveitis entities and IL10 was high in episcleritis. Also, IL-1β, IL-6 & MMP9 are elevated in post fever retinitis and TB. VEGF levels increased in post fever retinitis cases. In viral uveitis, MMP9 levels are elevated.

Conclusion: IL-1β, IL-6, IL-17A, TNFα, MMP9 and sICAM1 are significantly high in uveitis patients. Based on the analysis and quantification of the cytokines and specific tear markers may help in better understanding of the pathogenesis of uveitis entities to plan future targeted therapy.

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