Rheumatoid arthritis is present in 0.5 to 3% of adult population and ocular manifestations occurre in about 30% of patients. The most common ocular association with rheumatoid arthritis is dry eye syndrome. Other conditions include episcleritis, scleritis, marginal thinning of the cornea with keratolysis, stromal corneal opacities with peripheral vascularisation, peripheral ulcerative keratitis, inflammation of the anterior or posterior segment of the uvea.
Recognition of ocular problems is important in the management of rheumatoid arthritis. Although the focus of attention is usually on joint problems, patients with these chronic disorders require a comprehensive approach to their total medical care. Early and accurate diagnosis with prompt treatment or referral to an ophthalmologist may prevent systemic and ocular disabilities.