Outcome of Ocular Steroid Hypertensive Response in Children.

PURPOSE: The aim of our study was to analyze the epidemiological profile and outcome of steroid-induced ocular hypertension in children below 12 years of age in a tertiary eye center.

METHODS: Hospital records of patients attending the pediatric glaucoma clinic from July 2005 to December 2012 at our center were retrospectively reviewed. Steroid-induced ocular hypertension was defined as intraocular pressures (IOP)>21 mm Hg (or an increase of>6 mm from baseline) with or without associated glaucomatous optic neuropathy after intake of steroids in any form. Demographic data, management details and IOP, anterior segment, and posterior segment findings were recorded. The main outcome measure was the control of IOP after treatment.

RESULTS: Of the acquired pediatric glaucoma patients, 24% were steroid-induced ocular hypertensives (36 of 150 patients) (mean age group 9.2 ± 2.4 y). We studied 57 eyes of 36 patients that had an IOP>21 mm Hg after steroid intake. Of the 36 patients, 22 had bilateral steroid hypertensive response. Of all the patients, 15 (41.6%) received steroids because of vernal conjunctivitis, 16 (22 eyes) could be managed by withdrawing steroids only, 13 (25 eyes) were controlled by medical therapy, and 7 (10 eyes) needed surgery. Favorable outcome (defined as<21 mm of Hg with/without topical antiglaucoma medications) was achieved in 80.5% at the last follow-up (mean 17.4 ± 23.47 mo; range 4 mo to 8 y).

CONCLUSIONS: Our paper emphasizes on the ocular hypertensive side effects of steroids in children. There are many instances where one can avoid the use of steroids and consider nonsteroidal/anti-inflammatory alternatives. Withdrawal of steroids and antiglaucoma medicines are effective in controlling IOP in majority (80.5%).