Targeting alpha-4 integrin with natalizumab for intermediate uveitis associated with multiple sclerosis.

Abstract

Intermediate uveitis (IU) may be associated with multiple sclerosis (MS), with both conditions possibly sharing pathogenic mechanisms. Two patients presented with bilateral IU. Despite targeted uveitis treatment with corticosteroids and methotrexate, both had ongoing disease activity with symptoms, and fluorescein angiographic abnormalities. Both were subsequently identified to have radiologically isolated MS in the absence of clinical demyelination. Treatment with natalizumab in isolation, led to rapid and sustained resolution of uveitis, enabling discontinuation of other immunosuppression. This case series adds evidence supporting use of alpha-4 integrins in the treatment of MS-associated uveitis, in addition to its known high-efficacy in MS.