Use of Imaging Modalities in Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada Disease: An Overview

Summary

Aims: Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada (VKH) disease is an autoimmune disorder affecting multiple systems and characterized by bilateral granulomatous uveitis, frequently together with neurological, auditory, and integumentary manifestations. Prompt diagnosis and intervention are a must to prevent irreversible vision loss and possible systemic complications. Fundus imaging plays a pivotal role in the management of VKH, not only to reach the diagnosis but also to monitor  disease activity and response to treatment. Fundus photography, fundus autofluorescence imaging, fluorescein angiography, indocyanine green angiography, and optical coherence tomography (OCT) are among the imaging modalities. These methods provide invaluable insights into the different phases of the disease. In addition, OCT angiography enables clinicians to visualize associated retinal and choroidal microvascular changes. Continuous advances in imaging technology assist ophthalmologists to comprehend the VKH pathophysiology and to facilitate its differential diagnosis. Thus, clinical outcomes are improving with timely interventions and personalized treatment approaches. This mini-review provides an overview of VKH disease, with a particular focus on the fundus imaging techniques utilized in its management.

Keywords:

optical coherence tomography – optical coherence tomography angiography – Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada Disease – panuveitis – fluorescein angiography – indocyanine green angiography – melanocyte-associated antigens