Ophthalmologic disease in systemic lupus erythematosus and antiphospholipid syndrome

Up to one-third of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) have ocular manifestations. Ocular manifestations can be the presenting symptoms of systemic lupus erythematosus. The most common ocular manifestation is keratoconjunctivitis sicca syndrome, which is sometimes mild in presentation. However, vision-threatening ocular manifestations such as lupus retinopathy, choroidopathy, optic neuropathy, and scleritis can be seen in SLE. Aggressive treatment with immunosuppressive agents, including high-dose corticosteroids, is recommended for vision-threatening manifestations to prevent vision loss. A collaborative team approach between rheumatologists and ophthalmologists is highly recommended for prompt diagnosis and treatment.