How is retinal vasculitis treated
The treatment of retinal vasculitis depends on the underlying diagnosis, the severity of the disease, and whether the process is unilateral or bilateral. If its cause is infectious, appropriate antimicrobial therapy should be initiated. Corticosteroids are needed in almost all cases, including those secondary to infection. Periocular or intraocular steroids may be used in patients with moderate to severe disease or in those with unilateral involvement. Systemic steroids are needed when bilateral involvement is present and in cases of moderate to severe inflammation with a marked decrease in visual acuity.
Steroid-sparing agents may be needed if there is an inadequate response to steroids or they cannot be tapered, and selection should be based on the underlying disease. Azathioprine, cyclosporine, mycophenolate mofetil, anti-TNF therapies, and rituximab may be effective. Laser photocoagulation, antivascular endothelial growth factor agents (e.g., bevacizumab), and vitreoretinal procedures may also have a role in treating retinal neovascularization.
