Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada's syndrome and its multisystem involvement

Abstract

Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada's syndrome is a rare disease that affects tissues containing melanocytes such as eyes, central nervous system, inner ear and skin. Some ethnic groups have a higher probability of developing the disease like Asians, Indians and Latin Americans and most affected is the female gender. Methods: Literature was reviewed in books, articles published on the internet and papers available in the online databases MEDLINE, LILACS and SciELO. Texts were selected focusing on the otorhinolaryngological symptoms. Literature review: The disease probably has an autoimmune etiology in which aggression occurs on the surface of melanocytes by promoting inflammatory reaction with predominance of T lymphocytes. The HLA DRB1*0405 allele is the most associated with the disease. Clinical manifestations are divided into four stages: prodromal, uveitic, chronic and recurrent. The otorhinolaryngological symptoms occur at the uveitic stage characterized by bilateral sensorioneural hearing loss, tinnitus and vestibular symptoms. Diagnosis is made following diagnostic criteria of the disease. Treatment consists mainly of corticosteroids. Conclusions: Different specialities must recognize the importance of the Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada's syndrome.