A 25-year-old man has recurrent unilateral anterior uveitis with posterior synechiae. HLA-B27 testing is positive. He also reports lower back pain that is worse in the morning. Which associated systemic condition should be most actively sought?
- A Systemic lupus erythematosus
- B Sarcoidosis
- C Ankylosing spondylitis ✓
- D Behcet's disease
Correct answer: C. Ankylosing spondylitis
Explanation
HLA-B27-associated uveitis is the most common systemic association with anterior uveitis. It typically presents as recurrent, unilateral, non-granulomatous anterior uveitis. Combined with morning stiffness and lower back pain, the most likely associated condition is ankylosing spondylitis (AS). HLA-B27 is found in 90% of AS patients and 50-70% of HLA-B27-positive AU patients may have or develop AS, reactive arthritis, IBD-related arthritis, or psoriatic arthritis.
Reference: Khurana Comprehensive Ophthalmology, 7th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.