Ophthalmic Manifestations in Female Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Patients in a Tertiary Care Hospital of Bangladesh

Introduction: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease, more common in women of childbearing age. Ocular manifestations of SLE are common and may lead to permanent blindness from the underlying disease or therapeutic side effects. Keratoconjunctivitis sicca is the most common manifestation.

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to determine the ocular manifestation of SLE and to evaluate the distribution of ophthalmic manifestations in SLE female patients.

Methods: This cross sectional, consecutive study investigated 84 female patients who were diagnosed case of SLE by the Rheumatologist in Department of Rheumatology, BSMMU. A complete clinical evaluation including relevant all ocular examinations was performed in the Community Ophthalmology department, BSMMU.

Results: In current study showed females were predominant in SLE. Estrogen, likely contributes to the development of lupus in women who are genetically susceptible. The mean age was found 34.5 ± 9.3 years. Overall, among the SLE female patients included in the current study, 42.84% (n=36) patients had ocular manifestations while 57.12% (n=48) of the patients did not develop ocular manifestations at the time of enrolment in present study.

Conclusion: Ocular affection is frequent in SLE patients. Dry eyes and retinopathy (especially cotton-wool spots) are the most common findings. Early recognition by the rheumatologist, prompt assessment by the ophthalmologist and coordinated treatment strategies are key to reducing the ocular morbidity associated with this disease.