Outcome of tocilizumab treatment in refractory ocular inflammatory diseases

PurposeTo report the outcomes of tocilizumab treatment for refractory ocular inflammatory diseases. MethodsA retrospective case series of 17 patients (28 eyes) diagnosed with recalcitrant ocular inflammatory diseases including uveitis (10 cases), scleritis (six cases) and orbital pseudotumour (one case), who received tocilizumab between April 2010 and March 2015. All patients were initiated with treatment of 4mg/kg or 8mg/kg tocilizumab. The primary outcome was absence of inflammation and achievement of steroid sparing at 6 and 9months. Secondary outcomes were change in visual acuity and major adverse effects of tocilizumab causing discontinuation of the treatment. ResultsMean age at initiation of tocilizumab was 4116years. Prior to tocilizumab treatment, all patients underwent unsuccessful conventional immunosuppressive therapy while 94% of patients (16/17) failed treatment with various biological agents. After tocilizumab administration, control of inflammation and steroid sparing were achieved in 63% and 71% of uveitis patients at 6 and 9months, while 50% of scleritis patients achieved the primary outcome at 6 and 9months. Mean duration of tocilizumab therapy was 12.6 +/- 10.0 (range, 2-35) months. Three of four patients who had a follow-up of at least 18 (range, 18-35) months experienced quiescent inflammation for up to 32months of tocilizumab use until last visit. Four patients (24%) discontinued tocilizumab due to serious side effects including neutropenia, unacceptable dizziness and nausea, severe angioedema and severe abdominal pain. ConclusionOur series demonstrated moderate efficacy of tocilizumab in recalcitrant uveitis and scleritis. Serious adverse effects were not uncommon.