Adalimumab in Treatment of Uveitis in Pediatric Behcet’s Disease–a Case Report

Abstract

Introduction:

Behcet’s Disease (BD) is an inflammatory disease characterized by multisystemic involvement and featured by a chronic, relapsing disease course. Recurrent ocular inflammation and macular involvement may lead to severe loss of visual acuity. Prolonged use of local and systemic corticosteroids lead to numerous side effects and complications. Very often other immunosuppressive therapies are needed. Biologic agents are promising for the treatment of Behcet’s disease-associated uveitis.

Aim:

To report successful treatment of paediatric uveitis due to incomplete Behçet’s disease with administration of adalimumab, after failing to react to all other modalities of treatment.

Case report:

We present the case of a 15-year-old girl who was treated for reccurent uveitis in both eyes with developed complications on anterior and posterior ocular segment. She was earlier treated with topical and systemic steroids for uveitis, laser photocoagulation and methotrexate, however, relapses occurred inspite all treatment modalities. Patient was diagnosed with incomplete Behcet’s disease, and adalimumab therapy was initiated. Inflammation was well-controlled by adalimumab administration without need for local or systemic corticosteroids.

Conclusion:

Adalimumab is effective for treating children with Behcet’s disease-associated uveitis. Control of ocular inflammation in our case was achieved without need for continuing local or systemic corticosteroids, thus preventing further complications and possible significant vision loss.