Drug of choice for intermediate uveitis ?
**Core Concept**
Intermediate uveitis is a type of ocular inflammation characterized by inflammation of the vitreous body and surrounding tissues. The treatment of intermediate uveitis involves the use of corticosteroids and immunosuppressive agents to reduce inflammation and prevent damage to the ocular structures.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The drug of choice for intermediate uveitis is corticosteroids, specifically intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide. This is because corticosteroids are potent anti-inflammatory agents that can effectively reduce inflammation in the vitreous body and surrounding tissues. Triamcinolone acetonide is a long-acting corticosteroid that can be administered intravitreally to deliver high concentrations of the medication directly to the site of inflammation.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because systemic corticosteroids may not be effective in treating intermediate uveitis, as they may not achieve adequate concentrations in the vitreous body. Additionally, systemic corticosteroids can have significant side effects, including glaucoma and cataract formation.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because mydriatics, such as atropine, are used to dilate the pupil and reduce pain, but they do not treat the underlying inflammation.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) agents, such as bevacizumab, are used to treat age-related macular degeneration and diabetic macular edema, but they are not the first-line treatment for intermediate uveitis.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It's essential to note that the treatment of intermediate uveitis should be individualized and may involve a combination of corticosteroids and immunosuppressive agents. Additionally, patients with intermediate uveitis may require long-term follow-up and monitoring to prevent complications such as cataract formation and glaucoma.
**Correct Answer:** C.