Manifestations of Ocular Autoimmune Diseases - Literature Review

Abstract

Ocular manifestations in autoimmune diseases are mainly related to the formation of a chronic inflammatory process in the body. This is caused by an error in the body's histocompatibility system, which results in the lymphocyte attacking its own cells, which the lymphocyte considers foreign. Various autoimmune diseases with ocular symptoms may have different inflammation-related pathophysiology, ranging from increased vascular permeability in diabetic retinopathy to lymphocytic pressure in the exocrine glands in Sjögren's syndrome. The inflammatory process in the eye tissues leads to symptoms such as pain, redness, photosensitivity, tearing and reduced visual acuity. One of the most common autoimmune diseases associated with ocular symptoms is systemic lupus erythematosus, in which 50% of patients experience ocular symptoms. Ocular manifestations may worsen or improve depending on disease activity. Ophthalmological examination is extremely important for patients with autoimmune diseases because it allows for the early detection and treatment of eye-related diseases, monitoring the side effects of medications taken, and identifying other related health problems.