Ganesh SK, Abraham S, Sudharshan S. Paradoxical reactions in ocular tuberculosis.
J Ophthalmic Inflamm Infect 2019;
9:19. [PMID:
31493128 PMCID:
PMC6730739 DOI:
10.1186/s12348-019-0183-x]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2019] [Accepted: 08/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Paradoxical reactions following initiation of anti-tubercular therapy have been documented most often in extrapulmonary tuberculosis. A combination of factors such as delayed hypersensitivity, decreased suppressor mechanisms, and an increased response to mycobacterial antigens mediated by the host’s immune system have been implicated in the development of these reactions. Similar worsening in patients with ocular tuberculosis while on treatment has been described. It is therefore important for the clinician to be aware of this occurrence, as prompt recognition and timely institution of corticosteroids and immunosuppressants can lead to restoration of vision. In these patients, an alteration or discontinuation of anti-tubercular therapy may not be indicated.
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