Orbital inflammatory disorders: new knowledge, future challenges.

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

5-1-2021

Publication Title

Current Opinion in Ophthalmology

Abstract

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This review aims to bring together recent advances in basic, translational and clinical research on the pathogenesis and treatment of orbital inflammatory conditions.

RECENT FINDINGS: Basic science studies provide mechanistic insights into why the orbit is targeted for inflammation by autoimmune inflammatory disorders. Using Graves' disease as a test case reveals that endocrine pathways, such as the TSH and IGF1 receptor pathways play important roles in stimulating orbital inflammation. Furthermore, orbital tissues contain high concentrations of retinoids - byproducts of the visual pathway that diffuse across the sclera and can activate de novo transcription of inflammatory cytokines. Such cytokine expression places the orbit in a hyper-inflammatory 'resting' state, prone to respond to any additional systemic or local pro-inflammatory signals. The HIF2A--LOX pathway appears important for orbital tissue fibrosis. Lastly, bench-to-bedside studies of the IGF1R pathway have led to an FDA-approved drug, teprotumumab that represents a novel treatment approach for Graves' orbitopathy. Unfortunately, high drug costs and misplaced insurance company 'step-therapy' policies may block patients from receiving therapy that can protect vision and improve quality of life.

SUMMARY: Improved understanding of orbital inflammatory conditions has led to a new drug and promises additional breakthroughs. Translational research is successful, but requires time, resources, and patience.

Volume

32

Issue

3

First Page

255

Last Page

261

DOI

10.1097/ICU.0000000000000743

ISSN

1531-7021

PubMed ID

33606408

Link to Full Text

Share

COinS