Abstract

AIMS/BACKGROUND--The aim of this study was to evaluate whether grid laser photocoagulation of the macula is beneficial in the treatment of cystoid macular oedema in patients with uveitis. METHODS--Six eyes of five patients with long standing cystoid macular oedema due to chronic uveitis were treated by grid laser photocoagulation of the macula. RESULTS--In the first weeks after treatment a temporary increase of oedema and paracentral scotomas were observed. At the long term follow up of more than 18 months in all patients, macular oedema had been reduced significantly or disappeared in all eyes treated. One eye had a significant increase in Snellen acuity, three eyes more or less stabilised, and two eyes deteriorated. CONCLUSION--The beneficial effect of laser treatment on visual acuity in patients with uveitis might be more favourable if performed at an earlier stage of the disease.