The Relationship of HLA-B27 and HLA-B51 on Non-Behcet Uveitis

Abstract

Aims: The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship of human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-B27 and HLA-B51 on the clinical characteristics, demographic features, localization, laterality, treatment modalities and visual prognosis in non-Behcet uveitis patients Study Design: Retrospective study. Place and Duration of Study: Tepecik Eye Training and Research Hospital. January 1999 and March 2009. Methodology: A total of 143 non-Behcet uveitis patients were included. Socio-demographic data and clinical features of the patients were reviewed. The patients were divided into four groups according to HLA-B27 and B-51 positivity which were as follows; HLA B-27 (-) B-51 (-), HLA B-27 (+) B-51 (-), HLA B-27 (-) B-51 (+), and HLA B-27 (+) B-51 (+) groups. Results: Bilateral uveitis and posterior uveitis were more frequent in males in HLA-B27 (+) B51 (+) group, the baseline BCVA values were significantly lower in HLA-B27 (+) B51 (+) group, and also systemic steroid and immunosuppressive treatment were more frequently required to control uveitis attacks in this group. Anterior uveitis was more frequent in the HLA-B27 (-) B51 (-), and HLA-B27 (+) B51 (-) group. Conclusion: The positivity of both HLA-B27 and HLA-B51 was related with worse visual outcomes in non-Behcet uveitis patients associated with requirement of more aggressive treatment. The negativity of both HLA-B27 and HLA-B51 seemed to be related with better visual outcomes and less number of attacks in non-Behcet uveitis patients.