Efficacy of Tacrolimus in Uveitis, and the Usefulness of Serum Tacrolimus Levels in Predicting Disease Control. Results from a Single Large Center

Aims: To evaluate the efficacy of tacrolimus in patients with noninfectious uveitis, as well as the usefulness of serum tacrolimus concentration measurements in predicting disease control. Methods: A retrospective review was carried out on 71 eligible patients from a single specialist uveitis center for minimum 1-year follow-up. Analysis was carried out on disease activity, visual acuity, and trough serum tacrolimus concentrations (STC). Results: At 1-year follow-up, disease control was achieved in 49 patients (69.0%), this was significantly more likely in patients with trough STC levels above 5 ng/mL (88% vs 53%, p = .002). There was a significant reduction in oral prednisolone (dose >= 7.5 mg, 86% vs 54%, p < .0001). Tacrolimus was discontinued in 12 patients (17%) due to side effects. Discussion: In this study cohort, oral tacrolimus was effective and well tolerated in the treatment of noninfectious uveitis. Trough STC between 5 ng/mL and 10 ng/ml was associated with better disease control at 1-year follow-up.

Automated summary

Tacrolimus was found to be effective and well tolerated in treating noninfectious uveitis in this study. Higher trough serum tacrolimus concentrations were associated with better disease control, while high-dose use of oral prednisolone was significantly reduced.