Cutting-edge issues in autoimmune uveitis.

Autoimmune uveitis (AIU) is among the leading causes of preventable blindness. It can be isolated, precede, or appear in the course of a systemic autoimmune inflammatory disease. When suspected, AIU should be promptly referred to an ophthalmologist for proper anatomic classification and local treatment. In recurrent and chronic forms, systemic treatment should be started, usually with corticosteroids and immunesuppressors. In cases of lack of efficacy or intolerance, biologic agents such as monoclonal antibodies anti-TNF (infliximab and adalimumab) and others (abatacept and tocilizumab) are being used. The clinical diseases associated to AIU and the experimental models have helped in the understanding of the pathogenic mechanism. The treatment schemes have improved, and recent advances in basic knowledge are leading to even more effective targeted therapies.