Presumed Ocular Tuberculosis In Children: Variable Presentations And Role Of ATT

Dr Shabana Chaudhry

Children's Hospital & Institue Of Child Health, Lahore, Pakistan

PURPOSE: Diagnosis of ocular tuberculosis is difficult, particularly the retinal vasculitis type, because most cases occur without concurrent active pulmonary tuberculosis. We come across different presentations of ocular tuberculosis. (confirmed by lab investigations). Our aim was to diagnose & manage this grave condition to save the sight of the patients and to assess the necessity of antituberculous therapy.

METHOD: Cases consisted of 17 patients with uveitis and retinal vasculitis, Non-healing fistula close to the lacrimal sac, bilateral disc oedema & nerve palsies secondary to tuberculous meningitis with presumed ocular tuberculosis. Investigations & ATT trial confirmed our probable diagnosis of tuberculosis. The patients were managed both conservatively and surgically.

RESULTS: All cases of clinically presumed ocular tuberculosis were positive & antituberculous therapy turned out to be effective to save the sight of the patients in 3 of our 7 patient with uveitis.

CONCLUSIONS: Prompt diagnosis & treatment is important in patient with presumed ocular tuberculosis to avoid complications. Proper counseling & reassurance is important for patient's compliance.