Ocular Tuberculosis, Anti-Tuberculosis Prophylaxis, and Diseases Confused with Ocular Tuberculosis: Brief Report

Abstract

We present a case series of eight patients with ocular tuberculosis (OTB), latent tuberculosis (TB) or sarcoidosis, some of whom were receiving anti-tumor necrosis factor alpha (anti-TNF-α) therapy for various systemic diseases. Only one patient had a positive QuantiFERON®-TB test (QFT), and only one case showed a positive acid-resistant bacilli (ARB) test result. In a third case, brain imaging provided valuable assistance. Ocular tuberculosis should not be overlooked during clinical examination, as it remains a relevant diagnosis even in non-endemic regions. Over the last decade, the use of anti-TNF-α inhibitors for treating resistant uveitis has increased significantly. Consequently, it is essential to closely monitor patients for immunosuppression and remain vigilant about the risk of TB.