Insights into the molecular pathogenesis of ocular tuberculosis

Abstract

Unclear pathogenic mechanisms underlying the ocular tuberculosis (OTB) has resulted in perplexity related to the diagnosis and management of the disease. Developments in experimental research and innovations in molecular diagnostics have recently provided a new understanding of disease pathogenesis and natural history. The current review focuses on the new insights into OTB pathogenesis, derived from in vivo and in vitro studies on Mycobacterium tuberculosis dissemination and localization into the eye, in combination with histopathological studies on chorioretinal tissue and vascular network. Advances in the knowledge of OTB have influenced disease management in the clinical setting and lead to reconsideration of the role of existing treatments and suggesting potential new therapeutic approaches.

Keywords: Autoimmunity; Histopathology; Immunopathogenesis; Molecular mimicry; Mycobacterium tuberculosis; Ocular tuberculosis; Retinal pigment epithelium (RPE).