Ocular manifestations of rheumatologic diseases

Abstract

Objective: Analyze about the various ocular alterations related to rheumatic diseases, as well as to discuss their etiology, pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, risk factors, diagnostic and therapeutic approach. Bibliographic review: Rheumatic diseases, called autoimmune diseases, occur when the body's immune system reacts against healthy cells, causing inflammation that affects mainly the locomotor system. Diagnosis is based on history and physical examination, since laboratory tests have low sensitivity and specificity. Therefore, the identification is difficult and many times it can be confused with other pathologies. Moreover, patients with autoimmune diseases can develop secondary diseases, such as ocular complications like uveitis, dry keratoconjunctivitis, episcleritis, scleritis, and others. Thus, the manifestations vary according to the type of rheumatism expressed, as well as the treatment to be applied. Final consideration:  Rheumatic disorders cause ocular manifestations that should be followed by professionals in the area, in order to prevent and/or diagnose them.