Hematopoetic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is an increasingly common treatment in some hematological tumors and disorders. GvHD (graft vs. host disease) is the most common complication and creates a challenge given that the pathophysiology of the disease is not fully defined. Ocular GvHD (oGvHD) is one of the typical presentations of the disease and can occur independently or with the involvement of other organs. The pathophysiology of oGvHD is such that it has a negative effect on the quality and quantity of tears, which is why oGvHD significantly reduces the quality of life. In addition, oGvHD manifests itself as dry and painful eye, keratoconjunctivitis sicca, and in more severe cases as cicatricial conjunctivitis or corneal perforation. Timely ophthalmological examination is important, to enable, if necessary, the onset of treatment before the homeostasis is disrupted. The treatment of oGvHD begins with artificial tears and reduction of inflammation. In addition, if the disease progresses, surgical procedures are performed to treat secondary changes caused by compromised function of the ocular surface system.
Key words:
clinical manifestations of GvHD; GvHD; hematopoetic stem cell transplantation; ocular GvHD; treatment
OGLASI
