To quantify the bidirectional association between uveitis and systemic immune-mediated inflammatory diseases (IMIDs).
Approach:
Key Findings:
Patients showed a significantly higher risk of developing uveitis within five years of IMID diagnosis across all 12 systemic inflammatory conditions.
Strongest associations were found in ankylosing spondylitis (RR 7.71), juvenile idiopathic arthritis (RR 5.13), and systemic vasculitis (RR 4.61).
Uveitis was associated with higher odds of a prior IMID diagnosis.
Patients with uveitis had an increased risk of developing a new IMID within five years.
Interpretation:
Uveitis may serve as an early marker of systemic autoimmunity, indicating the need for interdisciplinary collaboration between ophthalmologists and rheumatologists.
Conclusion:
The study underscores the importance of recognizing uveitis as a potential indicator of systemic inflammation, advocating for proactive screening and management.
