Bilateral episcleritis as a manifestation of cutaneous leukocytoclastic vasculitis.

Abstract

PURPOSE:

The authors describe how bilateral episcleritis can be a sign of active systemic disease and can respond to treatment in a patient with cutaneous leukocytoclastic vasculitis.

DESIGN:

Case report.

METHODS:

Comprehensive ophthalmic and physical examination and color photography were used to monitor inflammation and its response to systemic immunosuppression.

RESULTS:

Systemic cyclophosphamide caused regression of systemic symptoms, cutaneous lesions, and episcleritis. After an 8-month follow-up, the patient has not had a systemic or ocular recurrence.

CONCLUSION:

Episcleritis may be a manifestation of cutaneous leukocytoclastic vasculitis. Careful examination of ocular inflammation is important in monitoring systemic disease and treatment.

• Authors: K Bollinger, C Medina, V L Perez
• Journal: Ocular immunology and inflammation (Ocul Immunol Inflamm) 2009 Jan-Feb Vol. 17 Issue 1 Pg. 23-5 ISSN: 1744-5078 [Electronic] England
• PMID: 19294569 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Immunosuppressive Agents
• Cyclophosphamide
• Prednisone
• Methotrexate

Topics

• Aged
• Cyclophosphamide (therapeutic use)
• Functional Laterality
• Humans
• Immunosuppressive Agents (therapeutic use)
• Male
• Methotrexate (administration & dosage)
• Prednisone (administration & dosage)
• Scleritis (diagnosis, drug therapy)
• Vasculitis, Leukocytoclastic, Cutaneous (diagnosis, drug therapy)