Cyclosporin A therapy in refractory non-infectious childhood uveitis.

AIMS: To assess the immunosuppressive efficacy, steroid sparing effect and adverse effects of cyclosporin A (CsA) therapy in refractory non-infectious childhood uveitis.

METHODS: A retrospective case series review of the medical records of children on CsA therapy attending a tertiary referral centre for refractory endogenous uveitis was performed. Low dose (< or = 5.0 mg/kg/day) CsA therapy was started either as monotherapy or in combination with other agents. The CsA immunosuppressive efficacy was assessed by visual acuity and binocular indirect ophthalmoscopy (BIO) score outcomes and steroid sparing effect by growth charts and ability to withdraw or maintain a low steroid dose. Possible CsA adverse effects were monitored by routine biochemistry (including serum creatinine) and haematological tests, blood pressure recordings, and symptoms.

RESULTS: 14 patients (25 eyes, 10 males, four females) were recruited with steroid failure as the most common CsA indication. Age (mean (SD)) at start of CsA therapy was 8.7 (4.1) years with a duration of CsA therapy of 20.9 (range 3.5-88.3) months at a maintenance CsA dose of 4.0 (1.0) mg/kg/day. From baseline, visual acuity improved or was maintained in 23 (92%) eyes and BIO score improved in 19 (76%) eyes. Height centiles were preserved and the maintenance prednisolone dose was 6.3 (3.3) mg/day, where required, in 10 (71%) patients. Nephrotoxicity was not observed, with transient systemic hypertension developing in one patient. Minor adverse effects were more common but were well tolerated.

CONCLUSIONS: Cyclosporin A therapy is effective and safe in the medium term, if closely monitored, in refractory non-infectious childhood uveitis.