Sensitivity of laser flare photometry compared to slit-lamp cell evaluation in monitoring anterior chamber inflammation in uveitis

Int Ophthalmol. 2010 Oct;30(5):495-500. doi: 10.1007/s10792-010-9386-8. Epub 2010 Aug 5.

Abstract

To study the sensitivity of laser flare photometry (LFP) in monitoring anterior chamber inflammation by correlating LFP measurements with slit-lamp evaluation of aqueous cells in HLA-B27-related uveitis in a prospective trial. Slit-lamp cell evaluation was correlated with LFP-measured flare in a masked fashion in HLA-B27-related uveitis patients receiving standard topical therapy. At the time of 50 and 90% LFP flare reduction, the corresponding reduction of cells was recorded and statistically compared using the sign test. Forty-three episodes (in 43 patients) of acute anterior HLA-B27-related uveitis were included. LFP flare reduction and slit-lamp cell reduction were strongly correlated. LFP was significantly more sensitive for both 50% (P = 0.001) and 90% (P = 0.02) LFP flare reduction in assessing the decrease of anterior chamber inflammation. LFP was superior to slit-lamp cell evaluation in monitoring anterior chamber inflammation in uveitis. Flare, becoming a quantitative parameter when measured by LFP, rather than cells, should be considered the gold standard to measure anterior chamber inflammation in uveitis.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aqueous Humor*
  • Diagnostic Techniques, Ophthalmological* / instrumentation
  • HLA-B27 Antigen / analysis
  • Intraocular Pressure
  • Lasers*
  • Photometry*
  • Sensitivity and Specificity
  • Uveitis, Anterior / diagnosis*
  • Uveitis, Anterior / immunology
  • Uveitis, Anterior / physiopathology
  • Visual Acuity

Substances

  • HLA-B27 Antigen