Uveitis in Rheumatologic Practice: A Window to Systemic Autoimmune Disease and Collaborative Care

10.36351/pjo.v42i4.2601

Abstract

The relationship between rheumatology and ocular inflammation has evolved significantly over recent decades. Uveitis is now recognized as one of the most important extra-articular manifestations of several rheumatologic conditions including spondyloarthritis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, Behçet disease, sarcoidosis, inflammatory bowel disease-associated arthritis and systemic vasculitides. Every episode of uveitis represents more than an ocular inflammatory event; it may be the first visible sign of an underlying systemic immune disorder, placing ophthalmologists in a unique position to identify patients who require rheumatologic evaluation. Conversely, rheumatologists must recognize that ocular symptoms may represent an urgent manifestation requiring immediate ophthalmic assessment. Strengthening collaboration between ophthalmologists and rheumatologists should therefore become a priority in modern clinical practice. By building integrated care pathways, improving education and ensuring access to appropriate therapies, we can transform uveitis from a cause of preventable blindness into a model of successful multidisciplinary disease management.