Argon Laser Photocoagulation for Treatment of Presumed Trematode-induced Granulomatous Anterior Uveitis in Children

ABSTRACT Background/Aims To assess the safety and efficacy of argon laser photocoagulation as a new modality for the treatment of presumed trematode-induced granulomatous anterior uveitis (PTGAU) in children. Methods Forty-eight eyes of 48 children with PTGAU with pearl-like nodule(s) in the anterior chamber were included in this prospective non- randomised controlled clinical trial. Patients were divided into two groups: group A (23 eyes) was treated with one session of argon laser applied to the anterior chamber nodules, and group B (25 eyes) received medical treatment in the form of topical steroid and cycloplegic eye drops with trans-septal triamcinolone injection.All cases were followed up for 3 monthswith measurement of VA, assessment of anterior chamber reaction, and size of the pearl-like nodules. Results In group A, 22 eyes (95.65%) showed regression of the pearl- like nodules with resolution of the anterior chamber reaction (flare and cells) and improvement in visual acuity from 0.52±0.12 to 0.06 ± 0.08logMAR ( p value <0 . 001) . Such improvement was maintained within the 3-month follow-up period. In group B, 23 eyes (92%) showed initial regression of the granulomas,whichwas maintained in only 14 eyes (56%),with 9 eyes experiencing recurrence after 3 months of follow-up. Conclusion Argon laser photocoagulation is a safe and effective novel treatment for PTGAU with pearl-like nodules in the anterior chamber in children. Larger studies with longer follow-up periods are needed to confirm these results. PRECIS Argon laser photocoagulation is a novel non-invasive line of treatment that can be added to the armamentarium for presumed trematode-induced granulomatous anterior uveitis in children.