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How does lupus affect eye health?

How does lupus affect eye health?

03 August 2023

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Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), commonly known as lupus, is a chronic autoimmune disease that can affect multiple organs and systems in the body, including the eyes. This disease can be highly variable and its symptoms can manifest in different ways in different patients.

Lupus and its ocular manifestations

Lupus is an autoimmune disease, which means the body's immune system becomes overactive and mistakenly attacks healthy tissue, causing inflammation and damage. Although lupus can affect various organs, the eyes are especially susceptible due to their delicate structure and high vascularity.

  • Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eye)

One of the most common eye problems associated with lupus is dry eye syndrome, also known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca. Lupus patients may experience decreased tear production or altered tear composition, resulting in insufficient ocular lubrication. This can lead to symptoms such as burning, itching, a foreign body sensation in the eye, and blurred vision.

  • Uveitis

Uveitis is another ocular complication that can arise in patients with lupus. This is an inflammation of the uvea -the middle layer of the eye that contains the iris-, the ciliary body and the choroid. Uveitis can cause redness, eye pain, sensitivity to light, and blurred vision. If not treated properly, uveitis can permanently damage vision.

  • Lupus retinopathy

This is a less common but more serious complication of lupus that affects the retina, the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye. This condition can lead to changes in the retinal blood vessels, hemorrhages, edema, and in severe cases, retinal detachment. As a result, the patient's vision can be significantly diminished and, in extreme cases, there may be loss of vision.

Proper diagnosis of the ocular complications of lupus requires evaluation by a specialized ophthalmologist. Lupus patients should have regular eye exams to detect potential eye problems early and prevent permanent damage.

Treatment may vary depending on the severity of the condition.

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