Juvenile Uveitis

Childhood and adolescent uveitis is a rare condition, comprising 5-10% of all uveitis cases. Often, the disease does not present with any symptoms, which can result in a delayed diagnosis and possible vision-threatening complications. Uveitis can be caused by infectious or non-infectious factors. Among the various causes, juvenile idiopathic arthritis is the most prevalent underlying disease in children with uveitis. In cases of infectious uveitis, treatment focuses on addressing the underlying pathogen. For non-infectious cases, a step-by-step approach involving immunosuppression, including steroids, conventional immunomodulating therapy, and biologic response modifiers, is utilized. The most common complications that can affect a child's vision include cataracts, glaucoma, and amblyopia. It is crucial to closely monitor patients even after achieving remission in order to promptly identify potential flare-ups and adjust the treatment regimen to minimize the risk of vision-threatening complications. The objective of this contribution is to provide a comprehensive overview of the clinical manifestations, possible causes, available treatment options, and potential complications associated with pediatric uveitis.