Immunotherapeutic approaches in ocular inflammatory diseases.

This comprehensive review discusses immunotherapeutic approaches to ocular inflammatory diseases, updates information provided in the literature, and presents clinical experiences with an emphasis on autoimmune uveitis at the National Eye Institute, United States. Current medical and surgical therapeutic approaches, including medications such as corticosteroids, anti-metabolites, alkylating agents, calcineurin and purine synthesis inhibitors, biologics as well as some anti-infectious agents, are reviewed along with new modalities and experimental approaches. Most immunosuppressive therapies have significant adverse effects. Physicians must be familiar with the pharmacology of the available drugs and aware of the philosophies behind the treatment.