Intraocular inflammation: Its causes and investigations

Abstract

Intraocular inflammation, or uveitis, incorporates a diverse group of infectious and immune-mediated disorders. In addition, some conditions masquerade as uveitis. However, classifying uveitis according to anatomic location in adult and pediatric populations, and appreciating the effect of immune status and regional differences, refines the list of potential causes. In this way, a select few investigations can be performed, rather than a nondirected battery of tests.

Analysis of interaction between the apicomplexan protozoan Toxoplasma gondii and host cells using label-free Raman spectroscopy

“…In humans, T. gondii is most frequently involved in the causation of infectious uveitis. 2 In dogs and cats T. gondii is a significant cause of ocular morbidity including inflammation and scarring of the retina (retinitis), iris (uveitis) and cornea (keratitis), resulting in severe pain and welfare implications. Our crossdisciplinary study combines cell-based integrated imaging modalities that allowed us, for the first time, to uncover T. gondii-associated functional alterations in the ARPE-19 cells.…”

“…1 Even though most T. gondii infections are benign, this pathogen can infect virtually any nucleated cell in-vitro and is a significant cause of morbidity during pregnancy and in immunosuppressed patients as well as visual impairment. 2 The parasite's remarkable ability to infect a broad range of hosts and cell types is due, in part, to the diverse arsenal of effectors it secretes into the host cell. For better understanding of the pathogenesis of T. gondii it is critical to identify the chemical molecules that mediate the interaction between this organism and the host cell.…”

Cytokine Profiles in Toxoplasmic and Viral Uveitis

“…Despite huge advances in diagnostic techniques, many cases (35%-50%) remain idiopathic. The agents that most frequently cause infectious uveitis are Toxoplasma gondii and herpes simplex virus [1].…”

Parasite dissemination and the pathogenesis of toxoplasmosis

“…gondii infection is responsible for considerable ocular diseases and T. gondii is the leading cause of infectious posterior uveitis [69,70]. Ocular lesions are frequently a consequence of congenital infection; however, there are instances where postnatally acquired T. gondii can also cause ocular disease [71].…”