give me systematic approach plan for approach to a case of posterior uveitis, detailed seminar for pg classes

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"posterior uveitis" AND diagnosis AND management

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SYSTEMATIC APPROACH TO A CASE OF POSTERIOR UVEITIS

A Comprehensive Seminar for PG Ophthalmology Classes

Sources: AAO BCSC 2025-26 Section 9 (Uveitis and Ocular Inflammation) | Kanski's Clinical Ophthalmology 10th ed. | SUN Working Group Criteria (2021)

SECTION 1: DEFINITION AND SUN CLASSIFICATION

What is Posterior Uveitis?

Posterior uveitis is defined as intraocular inflammation involving primarily the retina and/or choroid. The primary site of inflammation must be retinal or choroidal. Macular edema, peripheral retinal vasculitis, or optic disc edema alone do NOT constitute posterior uveitis unless retinal or choroidal inflammatory lesions are also present.
Anatomical spectrum includes:
  • Retinitis (focal, multifocal, geographic, or diffuse)
  • Choroiditis (focal, multifocal, geographic, or diffuse)
  • Retinochoroiditis / Chorioretinitis
  • Neuroretinitis
  • Retinal vasculitis (phlebitis, periarteritis, or combined)

SUN Classification (Standardization of Uveitis Nomenclature, 2021)

SUN DescriptorDefinition
OnsetSudden or insidious
DurationLimited (≤3 months) or Persistent (>3 months)
AcuteSudden onset, limited duration
RecurrentRepeated episodes with ≥3 months of inactivity between episodes off treatment
ChronicPersistent uveitis with relapse <3 months after stopping treatment
InactiveGrade 0 cells
RemissionInactive disease ≥3 months off all treatment

Epidemiology

  • Uveitis causes ~10% of legal blindness in USA/Europe, up to 25% worldwide
  • Posterior uveitis and panuveitis are more prevalent in developing countries
  • Infectious causes predominate in the developing world
  • Birdshot chorioretinopathy is more prevalent in northern Europeans; VKH and Behcet in Asian/Middle Eastern populations

SECTION 2: CLINICAL FEATURES OF POSTERIOR UVEITIS - SYMPTOMS

Key Presenting Symptoms (distinct from anterior uveitis)

SymptomMechanism
Painless blurred visionRetinitis/choroiditis affecting macula; macular edema
FloatersVitreous cells, vitreous debris
PhotopsiasRetinal photoreceptor stimulation
Scotomas (central or peripheral)Retinal or choroidal lesions
MetamorphopsiaMacular involvement, subretinal fluid
NyctalopiaDiffuse rod photoreceptor dysfunction
Blurred visionRefractive shift, cataract, macular edema, vitreous haze
Mnemonic for posterior uveitis symptoms: "FLAMS-N" - Floaters, Light flashes (photopsias), Altered vision (blur), Metamorphopsia, Scotoma, Nyctalopia
Key point: Posterior uveitis is characteristically painless (unlike acute anterior uveitis which causes red, painful eye with photophobia). This is why posterior uveitis may be missed or diagnosed late.

SECTION 3: CLINICAL EXAMINATION - SYSTEMATIC APPROACH

Step 1: General Examination

  • Blood pressure, pulse, skin (vitiligo, nodules, erythema nodosum), lymphadenopathy
  • Oral ulcers, genital lesions (Behcet)
  • CNS signs (VKH prodrome, sarcoid)

Step 2: External Ocular Examination

Look for:
  • Vitiligo/depigmentation of eyelids (VKH - poliosis, alopecia)
  • Perilimbal vitiligo (Sugiura sign in VKH)
  • Eyelid nodules (sarcoid)
  • Scleritis (associated diseases)

Step 3: Slit-Lamp Examination (anterior segment)

Even in posterior uveitis, anterior segment clues are vital:
FindingSignificance
Mutton-fat KPs, Koeppe/Busacca nodulesGranulomatous - Sarcoid, TB, VKH, SO
Fine diffuse stellate KPsFuchs, herpetic
Posterior synechiaeChronic inflammation
HypopyonBehcet, HLA-B27 (mobile hypopyon = Behcet)
Iris heterochromiaFuchs uveitis syndrome
Iris atrophy (sectoral)Herpetic (HSV/VZV)
Low IOPActive inflammation (ciliary body suppression)
High IOPTrabeculitis (herpetic), steroid response, peripheral anterior synechiae
Band keratopathyChronic (JIA, sarcoid)
AC flare/cellsSpillover from posterior; graded per SUN system
SUN AC Cell Grading:
  • Grade 0: <1 cell; Grade 0.5+: 1-5; Grade 1+: 6-15; Grade 2+: 16-25; Grade 3+: 26-50; Grade 4+: >50 per 1×1mm high-intensity slit beam

Step 4: Vitreous Examination (critical)

Vitreous haze = best indicator of disease activity in posterior uveitis
SUN/NIH Vitreous Haze Grading (0-4+):
  • Grade 0: Clear fundus view
  • 0.5+: Trace haze
  • Grade 1+: Few opacities, mild blurring of disc/vessels
  • Grade 2+: Disc and vessels substantially blurred but visible
  • Grade 3+: Optic nerve visible, but borders blurred; no vessels
  • Grade 4+: Dense opacity, optic nerve head obscured
Vitreous cells: 1×0.5 mm beam, retrolental space
  • Grade 0: 0 cells; 0.5+: 1-5; 1+: 6-10; 2+: 11-20; 3+: 21-50; 4+: >50
Other vitreous signs:
  • Snowballs: clumped inflammatory cells (intermediate uveitis, sarcoid)
  • Snowbanks: exudates over pars plana (pars planitis)
  • "String of pearls" / semi-linear strands: sarcoidosis
  • Dense sheets of vitreous cells in elderly patient: must exclude vitreoretinal lymphoma

Step 5: Fundus Examination - Dilated Indirect + Slit-Lamp Biomicroscopy

Retinitis

  • Active: Whitish/yellow retinal opacity with indistinct borders (edema)
  • Inactive: Discrete, well-defined borders, hyperpigmentation/scarring
  • Distribution: Focal (solitary), multifocal, geographic, diffuse
  • Toxoplasma: "Headlight in fog" - satellite lesion adjacent to old pigmented scar
  • CMV (in immunocompromised): "Crumbled cheese and ketchup" or "pizza pie" appearance; hemorrhagic, necrotic, brush-fire border
  • HSV/VZV (ARN): Peripheral, circumferential, necrotizing; full-thickness necrosis; associated occlusive arteritis

Choroiditis

  • Active: Round, yellow/creamy nodule with indistinct borders
  • Does NOT usually induce vitritis unless secondary retinal involvement
  • Inactive: "Punched-out" atrophic lesion with pigmented rim
  • TB: subretinal abscess (Dalen-Fuchs-like nodules)
  • Sarcoid: Multiple small yellow deep lesions; may evolve to hypopigmented atrophic spots with pigmented rim
  • Birdshot: Cream-colored ovoid lesions, nasal and radial distribution from disc

Retinal Vasculitis

  • Periphlebitis (venous): More common overall
    • Sarcoid: "Candlewax drippings" (taches de bougie), "string of pearls"
    • TB, MS, Eales disease
  • Periarteritis (arterial):
    • ARN/BARN: Occlusive arteritis, ARN triad
    • SLE: Branch/central arterial occlusions
    • PAN, Susac syndrome
  • Both arteries and veins: Behcet, SLE, toxoplasma, relapsing polychondritis
Table: Vasculitis Pattern by Disease
Primarily PhlebitisPrimarily ArteritisBoth
SarcoidosisSLEBehcet disease
MSPANToxoplasma
Eales diseaseSyphilisRelapsing polychondritis
BirdshotHSV/VZV (ARN/BARN)GPA
HIVSusac syndromeFrosted branch angiitis
Frosted branch angiitisIRVAN

Optic Disc Changes

  • Papillitis: VKH, sarcoid, toxoplasma, APMPPE
  • Optic atrophy: End-stage ARN, Behcet, chronic inflammation
  • Disc neovascularization: Ischemic complications, Eales

SECTION 4: DESCRIPTION OF CHORIORETINAL LESIONS

Describe all lesions by:
  1. Number: Focal (single), multifocal, diffuse
  2. Location: Posterior pole, midzone, periphery; relation to disc, macula, vessels
  3. Size: In disc diameters (DD) or microns
  4. Shape: Round, oval, geographic/serpentine, linear
  5. Color: White, yellow-white, cream, grey-white
  6. Morphology:
    • Punched-out: Round, well-demarcated (OHS, inactive sarcoid, birdshot)
    • Placoid: Large, flat, grey-white, patchy, indistinct margins (APMPPE, serpiginous)
    • Serpentine: Sharply defined, wavy borders (serpiginous choroiditis)
  7. Activity: Active (indistinct, fluffy, surrounding edema) vs inactive (sharp, pigmented borders)
  8. Associated findings: Subretinal fluid, hemorrhage, CNV, scarring

SECTION 5: A SYSTEMATIC DIAGNOSTIC APPROACH - THE FRAMEWORK

The "Four-Step Diagnostic Framework" for Posterior Uveitis

STEP 1: ANATOMICAL → What structures are involved?
STEP 2: PATTERN    → What does the lesion look like?
STEP 3: CONTEXT    → Patient profile (age, sex, immune status, geography, history)
STEP 4: TESTING    → Targeted investigations based on differential

Step 1 - Anatomical: Primary Site

LocationKey FeaturesThink of
Primarily retinaRetinitis (white, fluffy, hemorrhagic)CMV, HSV/VZV, toxoplasma, TB
Primarily choroidYellow/cream lesions, no vitritis unless retina also involvedBirdshot, sarcoid, TB, OHS, white dot syndromes
Choroid + RPEPlacoid lesions, RPE changesAPMPPE, serpiginous, MFCPU
VitreousCells and hazeAll posterior uveitis; dense = lymphoma
Retinal vesselsVasculitis, sheathing, occlusionBehcet, sarcoid, SLE, TB, viral
Combined retinochoroidalBoth layersVKH, SO, toxoplasma, ARN

Step 2 - Pattern Recognition (the "look")

Unilateral, focal, adjacent to old scar → Toxoplasma reactivation (commonest cause of posterior uveitis worldwide)
Bilateral, multifocal, small punched-out lesions, HLA-A29+ → Birdshot chorioretinopathy
Bilateral, large placoid lesions, young adult, viral prodrome → APMPPE (usually self-limited)
Serpentine, peripapillary origin, progressive → Serpiginous choroiditis (TB must be excluded first!)
Bilateral serous retinal detachments + choroidal thickening → VKH (rule out SO in trauma patients)
Occlusive retinal vasculitis + oral ulcers + HLA-B51 → Behcet disease
Peripheral necrotizing retinitis + arterial occlusion, normal immune status → ARN (HSV, VZV)
Peripheral necrotizing retinitis, rapid progression, HIV/immunocompromised → PORN (VZV)
Perivascular "candlewax drippings" + bilateral hilar adenopathy → Sarcoidosis
Multifocal white lesions, young myopic woman, no systemic disease → MFC/PIC/MEWDS spectrum
Old punched-out chorioretinal scars + peripapillary atrophy, no vitritis → OHS (endemic area)
Dense vitreous cells, patient >50 years, better vision than expected → Vitreoretinal lymphoma (masquerade!)

SECTION 6: PATIENT HISTORY AND REVIEW OF SYSTEMS

A targeted history is the single most important diagnostic tool.

Critical Historical Elements

Demographics:
  • Age, sex, ethnicity/race, geographic origin, travel history
  • Occupation (farmers - histoplasma; outdoor workers - Lyme)
Ocular history:
  • Prior episodes of uveitis, trauma, surgery (SO), intraocular procedures
  • Prior treatment with steroids (opportunistic infections)
Systemic history:
  • Known autoimmune disease (SLE, IBD, spondyloarthropathy, JIA)
  • Prior TB exposure, PPD/IGRA results, BCG vaccination
  • HIV status, immunosuppressive medications, transplant
  • Malignancy (masquerade: vitreoretinal lymphoma)
  • Medications: Rifabutin, cidofovir, bisphosphonates, checkpoint inhibitors, TNF-alpha inhibitors
  • Vaccines (BCG, influenza)
Systemic Review (disease-targeted):
QuestionTarget Disease
Recurrent oral ulcers, genital ulcers, skin lesionsBehcet disease
Back pain, morning stiffness, sacroiliitisHLA-B27 spondyloarthropathy
Shortness of breath, cough, skin lesionsSarcoidosis
Headache, tinnitus, hearing loss, skin depigmentationVKH
Butterfly rash, arthralgia, malar rash (young female)SLE
History of penetrating eye trauma/vitreoretinal surgerySympathetic ophthalmia
Exposure to cats, raw meatToxoplasma gondii
Exposure to dogs (esp. young child), soil/sandToxocariasis
HIV risk factors, IV drug useOpportunistic infections (CMV, toxoplasma, fungal)
Skin nodules, nasal/sinus disease, hemoptysisGPA (granulomatosis with polyangiitis)
Focal neurologic symptoms, MS featuresMS-associated uveitis
Coxsackie exposure (hand-foot-mouth), young patientAcute idiopathic maculopathy

SECTION 7: THE DIFFERENTIAL DIAGNOSIS FRAMEWORK

Broad Categories of Posterior Uveitis

I. Infectious

Parasitic:
  • Toxoplasma gondii (most common cause worldwide)
  • Toxocariasis (Toxocara canis/cati)
  • Diffuse Unilateral Subacute Neuroretinitis (DUSN)
  • Cysticercosis (Taenia solium)
  • Onchocerciasis (river blindness)
Bacterial:
  • Tuberculosis (Mycobacterium tuberculosis) - protean manifestations
  • Syphilis (Treponema pallidum) - "the great imitator"
  • Brucellosis, Bartonella (cat-scratch), Borrelia (Lyme), Whipple disease, Nocardia
Viral:
  • Herpesviridae: HSV (ARN), VZV (ARN, PORN), CMV (immunocompromised), EBV
  • HIV (direct + opportunistic infections)
  • West Nile virus, Rift Valley Fever (geographical)
Fungal:
  • Candida (IV drug users, indwelling lines - endogenous endophthalmitis)
  • Aspergillus, Cryptococcus, Histoplasma capsulatum (OHS)

II. Non-Infectious Posterior Uveitis

White Dot Syndromes (no systemic association typically):
  • Birdshot chorioretinopathy (HLA-A29)
  • APMPPE
  • Serpiginous choroiditis
  • MFCPU / PIC / SFU
  • MEWDS
  • AZOOR
  • Acute idiopathic maculopathy
With Possible Systemic Manifestations:
  • Sarcoidosis
  • VKH syndrome
  • Behcet disease
  • Sympathetic ophthalmia
  • SLE, PAN, GPA (vasculitides)
  • Susac syndrome

III. Masquerade Syndromes (must always consider!)

  • Vitreoretinal lymphoma (PVRL - primary vitreoretinal lymphoma)
  • Uveal lymphoma
  • Metastatic carcinoma
  • Retinoblastoma (children)
  • Leukemia
  • Malignant melanoma
  • Paraneoplastic retinopathy (CAR, MAR)
  • AZOOR-complex diseases
  • Retinitis pigmentosa
  • Ocular ischemic syndrome
Key rule: Syphilis testing in ALL patients with uveitis. TB screening in patients where systemic IMT will be used or where pattern suggests TB.

SECTION 8: TARGETED INVESTIGATIONS

The Principle of Tailored Testing

No standardized "uveitis workup" exists for all patients. The workup is tailored based on the differential diagnosis formulated after careful history and examination. A "shotgun" approach is costly, misleading, and not recommended.
Always test for syphilis in any uveitis patient - it can mimic virtually any form of ocular inflammation.

Grading the Workup by Clinical Pattern

Pattern 1: Posterior Uveitis - Focal/Multifocal Chorioretinitis

  • Toxoplasma IgG/IgM (ELISA) - baseline
  • Syphilis: FTA-Abs or MHA-TP (treponemal), then reflex RPR/VDRL (nontreponemal)
  • TB: IGRA (QuantiFERON-TB Gold) or PPD
  • CXR (sarcoidosis, TB)
  • ACE, lysozyme (sarcoidosis)
  • HIV serology
  • CBC with differential, LFTs, renal function (baseline for IMT)

Pattern 2: Posterior Uveitis - Bilateral Granulomatous

  • All of the above, plus:
  • HLA-A29 (birdshot)
  • ANA, dsDNA (SLE if clinical features present)
  • CT chest (sarcoidosis, TB)
  • CSF if neurological symptoms (sarcoid, VKH, MS, lymphoma)

Pattern 3: Posterior Uveitis - Vasculitic / Occlusive

  • FTA-Abs, RPR/VDRL (syphilis)
  • IGRA, CXR (TB)
  • Antiphospholipid antibodies (SLE, thrombotic)
  • ANA, dsDNA (SLE)
  • ANCA (GPA)
  • ESR, CRP
  • HIV
  • Intraocular fluid PCR (HSV, VZV if ARN pattern)

Pattern 4: Immunocompromised Patient

  • CD4 count, HIV viral load
  • CMV PCR (aqueous or vitreous)
  • Toxoplasma PCR (vitreous)
  • Fungal cultures, beta-D-glucan assay
  • Blood cultures

Laboratory Investigations - Quick Reference

TestIndication/Disease
FTA-Abs or MHA-TP + reflex RPR/VDRLSyphilis (ALL patients)
IGRA (QuantiFERON-TB Gold)TB (preferred over PPD in BCG-vaccinated)
ACE + LysozymeSarcoidosis (sens 61%, spec 88% combined)
HLA-B27Spondyloarthropathy, AAU
HLA-A29Birdshot chorioretinopathy (sens 96%, spec 93%)
ANASLE (only if clinically suspected - low PPV 4.4% in uveitis)
Anti-dsDNA, anti-Sm, antiphospholipidSLE
ANCA (c- and p-)GPA, microscopic polyangiitis
Toxoplasma IgG/IgMToxoplasmosis
Toxocara antibodyToxocariasis (child with peripheral/posterior pole granuloma)
Bartonella serologyCat-scratch disease (neuroretinitis)
Lyme ELISAEndemic area, clinical features
HIV serologyAny immunocompromised or atypical pattern
CBC with differentialBaseline; leukemia, immune status
LFTs, renal functionIMT baseline monitoring

Intraocular Fluid Analysis

Anterior chamber paracentesis (0.1-0.2 mL aqueous) or diagnostic vitrectomy when:
  • Suspected infectious etiology not confirmed serologically
  • Vision-threatening disease
  • Immunocompromised patient
  • Suspected vitreoretinal lymphoma
PCR testing of intraocular fluid:
  • Viral: HSV-1, HSV-2, VZV, CMV, EBV (high sensitivity/specificity)
  • Toxoplasma gondii PCR (better yield from vitreous in immunocompetent)
  • Pan-bacterial 16S rRNA, pan-fungal 18S/28S rRNA
  • Vitreoretinal lymphoma: MYD88 mutation, IgH/TCR gene rearrangement, IL-10:IL-6 ratio
Goldmann-Witmer coefficient (GWC): Local antibody production in aqueous vs serum - ratio >3 supports local infection (toxoplasma, herpes)
Cytology/flow cytometry: Vitreous biopsy for lymphoma (IL-10:IL-6 >1 in VRL)
Chorioretinal biopsy: Reserved for rapidly progressive, vision-threatening disease with no diagnosis after standard workup.

SECTION 9: MULTIMODAL IMAGING IN POSTERIOR UVEITIS

Imaging Modalities and Their Role

1. Fundus Photography

  • Baseline documentation of lesion size, color, distribution
  • Serial monitoring for progression/regression
  • Essential for comparing activity over time

2. Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) - Standard

The reference standard for macular edema assessment
  • Macular edema (CME, diffuse): quantified objectively
  • Subretinal fluid (VKH, APMPPE, SO): loculated spaces with fibrinous septa in VKH
  • Retinal thickening, retinal atrophy
  • Choroidal neovascularization (CNV)
  • Epiretinal membranes
  • Disruption of outer retinal layers (photoreceptor IS/OS line): MEWDS, AZOOR
  • Ellipsoid zone (photoreceptor IS/OS line): loss = functional damage in birdshot

3. Enhanced Depth Imaging OCT (EDI-OCT)

  • Choroidal thickness: increased in VKH (acute), SO, sympathetic ophthalmia
  • Choroidal thinning: end-stage birdshot, chronic posterior uveitis
  • Monitoring choroidal response to treatment (VKH: choroidal thickness correlates with activity)
  • Suprachoroidal fluid: VKH, posterior scleritis

4. Fluorescein Angiography (FA) - Essential for posterior uveitis

FA findings by disease:
DiseaseFA Pattern
VKH (early)Pinpoint hyperfluorescent foci, late pooling in serous RDs; disc leakage
BirdshotEarly hypofluorescence/silence, late staining; retinal venular leakage; disc leakage
APMPPE (active)Early blockage/hypofluorescence → late staining
APMPPE (healed)Window defects
Serpiginous (active edge)Early hypofluorescence → late staining/leakage at active border
MFCPUEarly blockage, late staining; CNV if present
BehcetEarly capillaritis (focal hyperfluorescence), late leakage; ferning pattern; nonperfusion
Sarcoid (vasculitis)"Candlewax drippings" on veins; disc leakage; CME petalloid pattern
Retinal vasculitisVascular wall staining, capillary leakage, nonperfusion
ARNPeripheral nonperfusion, arterial occlusion
Wide-field FA: Identifies peripheral retinal vascular pathology not visible on standard FA (Behcet, birdshot, sarcoid)

5. Indocyanine Green Angiography (ICGA) - Choroidal circulation

Penetrates RPE to image choroidal vessels - superior to FA for choroidal lesions
FindingDisease
Hypocyanescent dark dotsVKH (granulomas), birdshot, SO, sarcoid
Choroidal perfusion delayVKH (early, before clinical signs)
"Fuzzy" choroidal vesselsActive choriocapillaritis
More lesions than FA showsSarcoid, birdshot (ICGA superior)
Confluent hypocyanescent spotsBirdshot (emanating from disc)
ICGA is especially useful in: White dot syndromes, VKH, SO, birdshot, posterior scleritis

6. Fundus Autofluorescence (FAF)

  • Hyperautofluorescence = increased lipofuscin / active RPE damage / active lesion border
  • Hypoautofluorescence = RPE atrophy, loss of RPE cells
  • Active serpiginous: hyperAF at active edge
  • MEWDS: hyperAF lesions (even when resolved clinically - useful for diagnosis)
  • VKH: hyperAF in early stage, evolving to hypoAF with atrophy
  • Inactive lesions: hypoAF (RPE atrophy)

7. B-scan Ultrasonography

  • Essential when media opacity precludes fundus view
  • Vitreous opacities (cells, hemorrhage)
  • Choroidal thickening: VKH, SO, posterior scleritis (T-sign)
  • Exudative retinal detachment
  • Cyclitic membrane formation
  • Rules out foreign body, intraocular tumor
  • Posterior scleritis: "T-sign" = fluid in Tenon's space around optic nerve

8. OCT Angiography (OCTA)

  • Noninvasive visualization of retinal and choroidal vasculature
  • Identifies subclinical CNV
  • Evaluates capillary non-perfusion in vasculitis
  • Useful in birdshot (retinal venular leakage), PIC, MFCPU (CNV detection)

9. Electroretinography (ERG) / Visual Fields

  • Full-field ERG: Mandatory in birdshot (monitors diffuse rod/cone dysfunction); AZOOR complex
  • Multifocal ERG: Localizes retinal dysfunction in MEWDS, AZOOR
  • Visual fields (Humphrey 24-2): Birdshot (extensive VF loss despite good acuity), uveitic glaucoma
  • ERG helps distinguish retinal dystrophy from posterior uveitis

SECTION 10: SPECIFIC POSTERIOR UVEITIS ENTITIES - SYSTEMATIC APPROACH

10A: TOXOPLASMA CHORIORETINITIS

Epidemiology: Most common cause of infectious posterior uveitis worldwide
Pathogenesis: Reactivation of dormant tissue cysts of Toxoplasma gondii in the retina; primary infection in immunocompromised
Classic Presentation:
  • Unilateral, focal retinochoroiditis
  • "Headlight in fog" - active white lesion with surrounding vitreous haze adjacent to an old pigmented chorioretinal scar
  • Focal vitritis overlying lesion
  • Relatively quiet anterior segment (AC cells/flare may be present)
  • May have vasculitis adjacent to lesion
Atypical Presentations (suspect in immunocompromised):
  • Bilateral, multifocal, large, necrotic lesions (no adjacent scar)
  • No preceding old scar
  • Atypical location (peripheral)
Investigations:
  • Clinical diagnosis in typical presentation
  • Toxoplasma IgG serology (often positive from prior infection)
  • Syphilis testing to exclude
  • If atypical: aqueous/vitreous PCR for T. gondii; HIV testing
Treatment:
  • Classic (triple therapy): Pyrimethamine 25 mg BD + Sulfadiazine 500 mg QID + Folinic acid 5 mg alternate days (cover pyrimethamine bone marrow toxicity)
  • Adjunctive oral prednisolone 20-40 mg/day (after 24-48h of antimicrobials) only if threatening optic nerve or macula
  • Alternative: TMP-SMX (co-trimoxazole) + Clindamycin; Azithromycin
  • Duration: 4-6 weeks; extend in immunocompromised
  • Peripheral lesions in immunocompetent: may observe

10B: CYTOMEGALOVIRUS (CMV) RETINITIS

Population: Severely immunocompromised (HIV with CD4 <50, transplant recipients, chemotherapy)
Presentation:
  • Painless, progressive visual loss; may be asymptomatic initially
  • Peripheral "brush-fire" border: leading edge of active retinitis (white, granular) with trailing hemorrhage
  • "Pizza pie" or "scrambled eggs and ketchup": hemorrhage and necrosis
  • Retinal vasculitis, vascular sheathing
  • Full-thickness retinal necrosis (vs toxoplasma = superficial)
Investigations:
  • Clinical diagnosis in appropriate immunocompromised context
  • CD4 count (usually <50/μL)
  • Aqueous/vitreous PCR for CMV
Treatment:
  • Systemic: Intravenous ganciclovir (induction) → oral valganciclovir (maintenance)
  • Local: Intravitreal ganciclovir or foscarnet injections (adjunct for sight-threatening)
  • HAART (antiretroviral therapy) to restore immunity - most important long-term measure
  • Watch for immune recovery uveitis (IRU) with HAART

10C: ACUTE RETINAL NECROSIS (ARN)

Causative agents: VZV (most common), HSV-1, HSV-2; rarely CMV or EBV
The ARN Triad (SUN criteria):
  1. One or more foci of peripheral retinal necrosis with discrete borders
  2. Circumferential spread with or without treatment
  3. Occlusive arterial vasculitis (arteritis with periarteriolar sheathing)
Additional features: Moderate-severe vitritis, anterior uveitis, optic neuropathy
Bilateral ARN (BARN): VZV predominantly; fellow eye involved in 1/3 within 6 weeks
PORN (Progressive Outer Retinal Necrosis):
  • Severely immunocompromised (HIV CD4 <50)
  • Deep, multifocal, rapidly coalescent whitening of outer retina
  • Minimal vitritis, minimal vasculitis, perivenous sparing
  • Rapid progression; very poor prognosis
Investigations: Clinical diagnosis + aqueous/vitreous PCR (HSV-1, HSV-2, VZV) - highly sensitive/specific
Treatment of ARN:
  • IV Acyclovir 10 mg/kg TID for 5-7 days, then oral valacyclovir 1g TDS for ≥14 weeks
  • Intravitreal ganciclovir or foscarnet (adjunct)
  • Systemic anticoagulation (consider for occlusive vasculitis)
  • Prophylactic laser around necrotic areas (reduces RD risk; occurs in 75% without prophylaxis)
  • Systemic corticosteroids (48h after antivirals): controversial; used by some for severe inflammation

10D: BIRDSHOT CHORIORETINOPATHY

Key features:
  • Almost exclusively HLA-A29 positive (sensitivity 96%, specificity 93%)
  • Middle-aged patients (30-70 years), North European descent, female predominance
  • Cream-colored ovoid lesions, 50-1500 μm, nasal/radial distribution from disc
  • Diffuse retinal vasculitis, disc edema (may be subtle)
  • Symptoms often disproportionate to VA (nyctalopia, color disturbances, photopsias)
Warning: Visual field loss and ERG changes progress even with 20/20 VA. Do NOT monitor VA alone.
Monitoring: Full-field ERG (rod/cone), Humphrey 24-2 VF, OCT (macular thickness + ellipsoid zone), FA/ICGA
Treatment: Long-term systemic IMT required; antimetabolites (MTX, MMF, azathioprine) + corticosteroids as bridge; T-cell inhibitors (cyclosporine, tacrolimus); TNF inhibitors for refractory disease; fluocinolone acetonide implant for local control

10E: VKH SYNDROME

Classic 4 stages (but viewed as continuum):
  1. Prodromal (meningeal): Headache, meningismus, auditory symptoms (tinnitus, dysacusia), fever, photophobia - BEFORE eye symptoms
  2. Acute uveitic (Early stage): Bilateral granulomatous panuveitis; multiple serous RDs; choroidal thickening; disc edema
  3. Convalescent stage: Depigmentation begins - sunset glow fundus, Sugiura sign (perilimbal vitiligo), Dalen-Fuchs nodules; poliosis, alopecia, vitiligo
  4. Chronic recurrent stage: Persistent anterior uveitis, subretinal fibrosis, CNV
SUN Diagnostic Criteria (2021):
  • Early-stage: Serous (exudative) RD + multiloculated appearance on FA/OCT septa, OR panuveitis with ≥2 of: headache, tinnitus, dysacusis, meningismus, CSF pleocytosis
  • Late-stage: History of early-stage VKH + sunset-glow fundus OR uveitis with vitiligo/poliosis/alopecia
  • Exclusions: Syphilis, sarcoidosis (bilateral hilar adenopathy or non-caseating granuloma on biopsy)
Treatment: Aggressive early high-dose systemic corticosteroids (prednisone 1 mg/kg/day), slow taper over 6-12 months; add IMT early to prevent chronic disease; local steroids cautiously (risk of elevated IOP in VKH)

10F: BEHCET DISEASE

Diagnosis (International Study Group criteria):
  • Recurrent oral aphthous ulcers (≥3/year) + at least 2 of: recurrent genital ulcers, ocular inflammation, skin lesions (EN, pseudofolliculitis), positive pathergy test
Ocular features:
  • Posterior/panuveitis in 50-80% (sight-threatening)
  • Non-granulomatous, bilateral, recurrent
  • Occlusive retinal vasculitis (arteries AND veins): chalky white retinitis + hemorrhage
  • Hypopyon (mobile, shifting) - classic but not common
  • FA: ferning pattern of capillaritis, focal island hyperfluorescence, nonperfusion in advanced disease
Treatment: TNF inhibitors (infliximab, adalimumab) preferred first-line for severe posterior uveitis; azathioprine + corticosteroids; cyclosporine; interferon alfa-2a (outside USA); colchicine for mucocutaneous (NOT effective in posterior uveitis)

10G: SARCOIDOSIS

The "great imitator" of uveitis - can present as any anatomical type
Posterior segment findings:
  • Multiple small yellow choroidal granulomas (evolve to punched-out lesions)
  • Vitreous "snowballs," "string of pearls"
  • Periphlebitis: "candlewax drippings" (taches de bougie), "string of pearls" along veins
  • Branch/central retinal vein occlusion
  • Optic nerve involvement (papillitis, optic atrophy)
Diagnosis: Requires biopsy demonstrating non-caseating granuloma (confirm tissue); CXR (bilateral hilar adenopathy); ACE + lysozyme; exclude TB and syphilis; PET-CT for occult biopsy sites
Treatment: Local/systemic corticosteroids; systemic IMT (MTX, MMF, azathioprine; adalimumab/infliximab for refractory); obtain TB clearance before TNF inhibitors

SECTION 11: COMPLICATIONS OF POSTERIOR UVEITIS

Common structural complications requiring proactive surveillance:
  • Macular edema (CME) - most common vision-threatening complication
  • Epiretinal membrane formation
  • Subretinal fibrosis (VKH, MFCPU, serpiginous)
  • Choroidal neovascularization (serpiginous, birdshot, MFCPU, PIC, OHS)
  • Retinal detachment (tractional, exudative in VKH/SO; rhegmatogenous in ARN/BARN)
  • Neovascularization of retina/disc/iris (Eales, Behcet, ischemic vasculitis)
  • Cataract (posterior subcapsular - steroid-induced or chronic inflammation)
  • Glaucoma (trabeculitis, PAS, pupillary block, steroid-induced)
  • Optic atrophy
  • Vitreous hemorrhage
  • Phthisis bulbi (end-stage, severe chronic uveitis)

SECTION 12: TREATMENT OF POSTERIOR UVEITIS

Fundamental Principles (AAO BCSC 2025-26)

1. Confirm absence of infection FIRST before any immunosuppression
2. Quiet inflammation with corticosteroids
3. If worsening with steroids → reconsider infectious etiology
4. Taper steroids to safe dose (≤7.5 mg/day prednisone)
5. If steroid-dependent → add systemic IMT
6. Antimetabolites are first-line IMT; biologic agents (TNF inhibitors) if severe/refractory
7. IMT takes weeks-months; bridge with local or systemic corticosteroids
8. Maintain IMT at least 1-3 years; taper only after ≥12 months quiescence

Local Therapies (Corticosteroids)

  • Topical steroids: Anterior chamber spillover; limited role in pure posterior uveitis
  • Posterior sub-Tenon injection (triamcinolone acetonide 40 mg/mL): Useful for posterior segment; peak 4 weeks, duration ~3 months; risk of elevated IOP (25%), ptosis, perforation
  • Orbital floor injection (inferotemporal sub-Tenon): Alternative; lower ptosis/perforation risk
  • Intravitreal triamcinolone 4 mg/0.1 mL: Useful for uveitic CME; ~3-6 month effect; IOP elevation in >50%
  • Dexamethasone intravitreal implant (Ozurdex, 700 μg): Biodegradable; FDA-approved for posterior noninfectious uveitis; CME reduction 46% vs periocular 23% (POINT trial)
  • Fluocinolone acetonide insert (0.18 mg, Yutiq): 36-month slow release; reduces uveitis recurrence from 97.6% to 27.6% vs sham at 6 months (FAi trial); significant cataract risk (73.8% vs 23.8%)
  • Fluocinolone acetonide implant (0.59 mg, Retisert): Surgically placed; ~30 months effective; near-universal cataract, 75% IOP elevation requiring drops
  • Suprachoroidal triamcinolone (CLS-TA, Xipere): FDA-approved 2021; delivered via suprachoroidal microinjector; 47% achieve ≥15 ETDRS letter gain at 24 weeks (PEACHTREE trial)

Systemic Corticosteroids

  • Starting dose: Prednisone 1 mg/kg/day (up to 60 mg/day)
  • Severe cases: IV methylprednisolone pulse 1 g/day × 3 days
  • Taper goal: ≤7.5 mg/day; if unable within 3 months → add IMT
  • Long-term risks: Cataract, osteoporosis, avascular necrosis, diabetes, hypertension, GI ulcers

Systemic Immunomodulatory Therapy (IMT)

Antimetabolites (first-line IMT)

DrugDoseKey Points
Methotrexate (MTX)15-25 mg/week SC/oral+ folic acid 1-2 mg/day; teratogenic; hepatotoxicity; often first choice in children
Mycophenolate Mofetil (MMF)1-1.5 g BDFaster onset (4 months); less GI side effects; equal efficacy to MTX (FAST trial)
Azathioprine2-2.5 mg/kg/dayCheck TPMT before starting; more GI side effects; effective in VKH, Behcet

T-cell Inhibitors

DrugDoseKey Points
Cyclosporine2.5-5 mg/kg/dayNephrotoxic, hypertension; effective in Behcet; check creatinine
Tacrolimus0.1-0.15 mg/kg/daySimilar to cyclosporine; monitor levels

Biologic Agents (TNF inhibitors)

  • Adalimumab (Humira) - only FDA-approved biologic for noninfectious uveitis affecting posterior segment; dose: 80 mg SC day 1, 40 mg day 8, then 40 mg every 2 weeks; VISUAL I/II/III trials demonstrate efficacy; first-line for Behcet uveitis, JIA-uveitis
  • Infliximab (Remicade) - 5-10 mg/kg IV infusions at weeks 0, 2, 6 then every 4-8 weeks; effective in Behcet, sarcoidosis, refractory posterior uveitis

Alkylating Agents (reserved for most severe/refractory)

  • Cyclophosphamide 2 mg/kg/day oral; Chlorambucil 0.1-0.2 mg/kg/day
  • Use only when other IMT fails; significant malignancy risk
  • Effective in: necrotizing scleritis, serpiginous choroiditis, severe VKH, SO, Behcet

Other

  • Interferon alfa-2a: Effective in Behcet; used outside USA; antiviral + immunomodulatory
  • Tocilizumab (anti-IL-6): Emerging evidence in refractory noninfectious uveitis
  • Rituximab: Emerging evidence in SFU, severe uveitis

Pre-IMT Checklist

Before starting systemic IMT:
  1. Screen for latent TB (IGRA/PPD + CXR) - mandatory before TNF inhibitors
  2. Syphilis serology
  3. Hepatitis B surface antigen (risk of reactivation with biologic agents)
  4. CBC, LFTs, renal function (baseline)
  5. Pregnancy test; counsel on contraception
  6. Update vaccinations (ideally 4 weeks before biologic, 2 weeks before non-biologic)
  7. Counsel patient on fertility implications (MTX, MMF - highly teratogenic; stop 3 months before conception)

SECTION 13: APPROACH TO SPECIFIC CLINICAL SCENARIOS

Scenario A: Young immunocompetent patient, unilateral focal vitritis + chorioretinal lesion adjacent to old scar

→ Toxoplasma reactivation - serology, treat if threatening vision or optic nerve

Scenario B: Middle-aged woman, bilateral blurred vision/floaters, normal VA, nyctalopia, no AC cells

→ Birdshot chorioretinopathy - check HLA-A29, full-field ERG, VF testing

Scenario C: Young adult, sudden bilateral decreased vision, preceded by headache/tinnitus, bilateral serous RDs

→ Early-stage VKH - LP for CSF pleocytosis, audiology, urgent high-dose steroids + IMT

Scenario D: Bilateral vasculitis + oral/genital ulcers + skin lesions, Middle Eastern/Asian patient

→ Behcet disease - pathergy test, HLA-B51 (supportive), urgent control with TNF inhibitors

Scenario E: HIV patient, CD4 <50, peripheral brush-fire retinitis + hemorrhage

→ CMV retinitis - vitreal PCR, IV ganciclovir + HAART

Scenario F: Immunocompetent patient, peripheral necrotizing retinitis, arteritis, vitritis

→ ARN (VZV/HSV) - urgent aqueous/vitreous PCR, IV acyclovir

Scenario G: Patient >55 years, dense vitreous cells, no macular edema, better vision than expected, poor steroid response

→ Vitreoretinal lymphoma (masquerade) - vitrectomy for cytology, IL-10:IL-6 ratio, MYD88, neuroimaging (brain MRI)

Scenario H: Bilateral periphlebitis + bilateral hilar adenopathy + skin lesions

→ Sarcoidosis - ACE/lysozyme, CXR/CT chest, biopsy accessible lesion

SECTION 14: MONITORING AND FOLLOW-UP

Outcomes to Track at Each Visit

  • Best-corrected visual acuity (both eyes)
  • Vitreous haze grade (0-4+, SUN/NIH)
  • Anterior chamber cells/flare (SUN grading)
  • Fundus: New/resolved lesions, disc status, vasculitis activity
  • OCT: Macular thickness (CME), SRF, subretinal fibrosis, ellipsoid zone integrity
  • IOP: Especially on steroids (sub-Tenon triamcinolone → peak IOP at 4-6 weeks)
  • Steroid dose: Taper schedule progress

Red Flags Requiring Urgent Reassessment

  • Worsening on high-dose corticosteroids → reconsider infection
  • Rapidly progressing necrotizing retinitis → ARN/PORN/CMV
  • New dense vitreous cells in older patient → vitreoretinal lymphoma
  • Sudden vision loss + RD → retinal break (ARN), exudative RD (VKH)
  • Elevated IOP after periocular/intravitreal steroid

SECTION 15: SUMMARY ALGORITHM - APPROACH TO POSTERIOR UVEITIS

PATIENT WITH POSTERIOR UVEITIS
           ↓
1. SYMPTOMS (painless? blurred vision, floaters, photopsias, scotomata, metamorphopsia)
           ↓
2. HISTORY (demographics, systemic symptoms, immune status, medications, travel, exposures)
           ↓
3. EXAMINATION
   - Anterior segment (KP type, AC cells/flare, synechiae, IOP)
   - Vitreous (haze grade, cells, snowballs, strands)
   - Fundus (retinitis vs choroiditis vs vasculitis; describe lesions systematically)
           ↓
4. MULTIMODAL IMAGING
   - OCT (CME, SRF, choroidal thickness, ellipsoid zone)
   - FA (vasculitis, CME, disc leakage, lesion staining pattern)
   - ICGA (choroidal lesions, granulomas, VKH, birdshot)
   - FAF (active vs inactive, RPE damage)
   - B-scan (if media opacity; T-sign for posterior scleritis)
           ↓
5. PATTERN RECOGNITION → Working Differential (Infectious / Non-infectious / Masquerade)
           ↓
6. TARGETED INVESTIGATIONS
   - ALL patients: Syphilis serology (FTA-Abs + RPR/VDRL)
   - Most patients: IGRA/PPD, CXR
   - Pattern-directed: ACE/lysozyme, HLA typing, serologies, PCR
   - Intraocular fluid if needed: AC paracentesis or diagnostic vitrectomy
           ↓
7. DIAGNOSIS
           ↓
8. TREATMENT
   - Infectious → Specific antimicrobials ± adjunctive steroids
   - Non-infectious → Corticosteroids (local/systemic) → Taper → IMT if steroid-dependent
   - Masquerade → Disease-specific (chemotherapy, radiotherapy for lymphoma)
           ↓
9. MONITOR (VA, vitreous haze, OCT, FA as needed, IOP, steroid side effects)

KEY EXAM PEARLS

  1. Posterior uveitis is defined by the PRIMARY site - inflammation must be retinal/choroidal, not just its complications (CME, disc edema alone do not count)
  2. Always exclude syphilis in every uveitis patient - it can mimic virtually anything
  3. Before steroids in posterior uveitis → rule out infection (especially herpetic ARN, toxoplasma, fungal)
  4. Birdshot - VA can be 20/20 while extensive VF loss and ERG changes occur; monitor ERG and VF, not just VA
  5. VKH - treat early and aggressively; the "sunset glow fundus" and depigmentation indicate chronic inadequately treated disease
  6. CMV retinitis - full-thickness retinitis with brush-fire border; treat with IV ganciclovir + HAART
  7. ARN - peripheral necrotizing retinitis with arteritis; urgent IV acyclovir; RD risk 75% without prophylaxis
  8. Vitreoretinal lymphoma - "masquerade"; suspect in elderly with dense vitreous cells, lack of CME, poor steroid response; diagnose with vitrectomy + IL-10:IL-6 ratio
  9. IMT principles: Antimetabolites (MTX, MMF, azathioprine) first-line; adalimumab = only FDA-approved biologic for noninfectious uveitis; screen TB/syphilis/hepatitis B before starting
  10. IGRA preferred over PPD in BCG-vaccinated patients for TB screening
  11. Goldmann-Witmer coefficient >3 supports local intraocular infection
  12. EDI-OCT choroidal thickness: Increases in active VKH (disease activity marker), decreases with treatment

Sources:
  • AAO BCSC 2025-26 Section 9: Uveitis and Ocular Inflammation (Chapters 5, 6, 9, 10) - primary reference for this seminar
  • Kanski's Clinical Ophthalmology: A Systematic Approach, 10th ed., Chapter 12
  • SUN Working Group Classification Criteria 2021 (Am J Ophthalmol)
  • VISUAL I/II/III Trials (adalimumab in noninfectious uveitis)
  • MUST Trial (local vs systemic therapy)
  • POINT Trial (periocular vs intravitreal corticosteroids for uveitic CME)
  • FAi Trial (fluocinolone acetonide insert)
  • FAST Trial (methotrexate vs mycophenolate mofetil)

give me classification for posterior uveitis

Based on the comprehensive content already in our session from the AAO BCSC 2025-26 and Kanski's, here is the complete classification for posterior uveitis:

CLASSIFICATION OF POSTERIOR UVEITIS


I. SUN (STANDARDIZATION OF UVEITIS NOMENCLATURE) ANATOMICAL CLASSIFICATION

Posterior uveitis = inflammation primarily of the retina and/or choroid

Subtypes by Primary Structure Involved:

SUN CategoryPrimary SiteIncludes
RetinitisRetinaFocal, multifocal, geographic, diffuse
ChoroiditisChoroidFocal, multifocal, geographic, diffuse
ChorioretinitisChoroid → secondary retinaChoroidal lesion with retinal extension
RetinochoroiditisRetina → secondary choroidRetinal lesion with choroidal extension
NeuroretinitisRetina + optic nerveOptic disc swelling + macular star
Retinal vasculitisRetinal vesselsPhlebitis, periarteritis, or combined
Note (SUN 2021): Posterior uveitis or panuveitis must include choroidal and/or retinal lesions. Macular edema, optic disc edema, or peripheral vasculitis alone do NOT qualify.

II. CLASSIFICATION BY ONSET, DURATION, AND COURSE (SUN)

DescriptorDefinition
AcuteSudden onset, limited duration (≤3 months)
RecurrentRepeated episodes with ≥3 months inactive off treatment
ChronicPersistent; relapses <3 months after stopping treatment
Insidious onsetGradual, typically in non-infectious/autoimmune types
Sudden onsetMore typical of infectious or vasculitic types

III. CLASSIFICATION BY LATERALITY

TypeExamples
UnilateralToxoplasma, OHS, DUSN, ARN (initially), CMV
BilateralVKH, Birdshot, Behcet, Sarcoid, Sympathetic ophthalmia
Bilateral asymmetricVKH, APMPPE, Birdshot, Serpiginous
AlternatingBehcet (attacks may alternate)

IV. CLASSIFICATION BY MORPHOLOGY OF LESIONS (CLINICAL PATTERN)

MorphologyDescriptionKey Disease
FocalSingle solitary lesionToxoplasma, OHS, CMV
MultifocalMultiple discrete lesionsBirdshot, sarcoid, TB, white dot syndromes
Geographic/DiffuseLarge confluent areasSerpiginous, CMV (advanced), VKH
PlacoidLarge flat grey-white lesions, indistinct marginsAPMPPE, ampiginous choroiditis
SerpentineSharply defined, wavy borders; peripapillary originSerpiginous choroiditis
Punched-outRound, well-demarcated atrophic scarsOHS, inactive birdshot, inactive sarcoid
Ovoid/cream-coloredPeripapillary, radial distributionBirdshot chorioretinopathy
NecrotizingFull-thickness retinal whitening, necrosisARN, PORN, CMV

V. CLASSIFICATION BY ETIOLOGY - THE MOST CLINICALLY IMPORTANT

A. INFECTIOUS

1. Parasitic

OrganismDisease
Toxoplasma gondiiToxoplasma chorioretinitis (most common worldwide)
Toxocara canis/catiOcular toxocariasis
Taenia soliumOcular cysticercosis
Helminths (motile worm)Diffuse Unilateral Subacute Neuroretinitis (DUSN)
Onchocerca volvulusOnchocerciasis (river blindness)

2. Viral

VirusDisease
HSV-1, HSV-2ARN (Acute Retinal Necrosis)
VZVARN, BARN, PORN (immunocompromised)
CMVCMV retinitis (CD4 <50)
EBVRare retinitis/uveitis
HIVDirect + opportunistic (CMV, toxoplasma, cryptococcus)
West Nile virusChorioretinitis (geographic)
HTLV-1Uveitis (Japan, Caribbean)

3. Bacterial

OrganismDisease
Mycobacterium tuberculosisTB-associated posterior uveitis (serpiginous-like choroiditis, choroidal granuloma, retinal vasculitis)
Treponema pallidumSyphilitic posterior uveitis - "the great imitator"
Bartonella henselae/quintanaCat-scratch disease, neuroretinitis (Leber's stellate)
Borrelia burgdorferiLyme disease-associated uveitis
Brucella spp.Brucellosis
Tropheryma whippleiWhipple disease
Nocardia spp.Nocardiosis

4. Fungal

OrganismDisease
Candida albicansEndogenous fungal endophthalmitis (IV drug users, indwelling lines)
Aspergillus spp.Endogenous endophthalmitis (immunocompromised)
Histoplasma capsulatumOcular Histoplasmosis Syndrome (OHS) - endemic Ohio-Mississippi valley
Cryptococcus neoformansCryptococcal chorioretinitis (immunocompromised)
Pneumocystis jiroveciiPneumocystis choroiditis (HIV, CD4 <100)
Coccidioides immitisCoccidioidomycosis (endemic desert Southwest USA)

B. NON-INFECTIOUS (Autoimmune / Autoinflammatory)

1. White Dot Syndromes (typically no systemic disease)

DiseaseKey FeaturesHLA Association
Birdshot chorioretinopathyCream ovoid lesions, radial from disc; diffuse vasculitis; chronicHLA-A29 (96% sensitive)
APMPPEBilateral placoid lesions; young adult; viral prodrome; self-limitedNone specific
Serpiginous choroiditisSerpentine peripapillary; progressive; TB must be excludedNone specific
Ampiginous (Relentless Placoid) ChoroiditisMultifocal placoid; more widespread than APMPPE; recurrentNone specific
MFCPUMultifocal choroiditis + panuveitis; young myopic women; punched-out scarsNone specific
PIC (Punctate Inner Choroiditis)Small deep lesions; young myopic women; no vitritisNone specific
SFU (Subretinal Fibrosis and Uveitis)Progressive subretinal fibrosis; severeNone specific
MEWDSMultiple evanescent white dots; perifoveal; self-limited; unilateralNone specific
AZOOROuter retinal degeneration; zonal VF loss; photopsias; ERG abnormalNone specific
Acute Idiopathic MaculopathyCoxsackie-related; turbid subretinal fluid at maculaNone specific

2. Posterior Uveitis with Possible Systemic Manifestations

a. Panuveitis / Posterior uveitis - Primary Ocular, Possible Systemic

DiseaseKey Systemic FeaturesHLA
SarcoidosisLungs (BHL), skin (EN, nodules), jointsHLA-B8 (acute), HLA-B13 (chronic)
VKH SyndromeHeadache, tinnitus/deafness, meningismus, vitiligo, poliosis, alopeciaHLA-DR4 (Japanese/Hispanic)
Sympathetic OphthalmiaHistory of penetrating trauma or surgery (fellow eye)HLA-DR4
Behcet DiseaseOral/genital ulcers, skin lesions, pathergy, arthritis, CNSHLA-B51

b. Systemic Vasculitides

DiseaseKey Features
SLERetinal vasculitis (arteritis), CRA/BRA occlusions; malar rash; young woman
PAN (Polyarteritis nodosa)Arteritis; ischemic changes; systemic vasculitis
GPA (Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis)Chronic sinusitis, epistaxis, pulmonary involvement; c-ANCA
Susac SyndromeTriad: encephalopathy + sensorineural hearing loss + branch retinal artery occlusions

c. Inflammatory Bowel Disease-associated

  • Crohn disease, Ulcerative colitis → posterior uveitis/panuveitis (less common than anterior)

d. Other Autoimmune

  • Multiple Sclerosis → intermediate uveitis predominantly; some posterior
  • Relapsing Polychondritis → retinal vasculitis

C. MASQUERADE SYNDROMES (mimic posterior uveitis - must always exclude)

CategoryDisease
NeoplasticVitreoretinal (primary) lymphoma (PVRL)
Uveal lymphoma
Systemic lymphoma with ocular involvement
Leukemia
Choroidal metastases
Malignant melanoma
Retinoblastoma (children)
ParaneoplasticCancer-Associated Retinopathy (CAR) - anti-recoverin
Melanoma-Associated Retinopathy (MAR)
Non-neoplasticRetinitis pigmentosa / inherited retinal dystrophy
Ocular ischemic syndrome
Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment
Vitreous hemorrhage
Drug-induced retinopathy (checkpoint inhibitors, tamoxifen)

VI. CLASSIFICATION BY ANATOMICAL LAYER PRIMARILY INVOLVED

OUTER RETINA / RPE / CHORIOCAPILLARIS
    → White Dot Syndromes (APMPPE, serpiginous, MEWDS, AZOOR, PIC)
    → VKH (early stage)

INNER CHOROID / CHOROID
    → Birdshot chorioretinopathy
    → Multifocal choroiditis (MFCPU, PIC, SFU)
    → Sarcoidosis (choroidal granulomas)
    → TB (subretinal abscess, choroidal granuloma)

RETINA (all layers - necrotizing)
    → ARN / BARN (HSV, VZV)
    → PORN (VZV, immunocompromised)
    → CMV retinitis (immunocompromised)
    → Toxoplasma (focal, superficial to full-thickness)

RETINAL VESSELS
    → Periphlebitis: Sarcoid, TB, MS, Eales, HIV, birdshot
    → Periarteritis: SLE, PAN, ARN/BARN, Susac
    → Occlusive: Behcet, ARN, Susac, SLE

SUBRETINAL SPACE
    → VKH (exudative RDs with fibrinous septa)
    → Sympathetic ophthalmia (Dalen-Fuchs nodules)
    → MFCPU, SFU (subretinal fibrosis)

VII. CLASSIFICATION BY GRANULOMATOUS vs NON-GRANULOMATOUS

TypeHistologyClinical SignsDiseases
GranulomatousEpithelioid cells, giant cells, non-caseating granulomasMutton-fat KPs, Koeppe/Busacca nodules, Dalen-Fuchs nodules, yellow choroidal granulomasSarcoidosis, TB, VKH, Sympathetic ophthalmia, leprosy
Non-granulomatousLymphocytes and plasma cellsFine/stellate KPs, no iris nodulesToxoplasma, viral (CMV, HSV), Behcet, SLE, most viral causes
Granulomatous vs non-granulomatous does NOT always predict etiology and can change with treatment stage or chronicity.

VIII. CLASSIFICATION BY IMMUNE STATUS OF HOST

Immune StatusKey Entities
ImmunocompetentToxoplasma, ARN (HSV/VZV), VKH, Behcet, sarcoidosis, birdshot, white dot syndromes, TB, syphilis
Immunocompromised (HIV CD4 <50)CMV retinitis, PORN, toxoplasma (bilateral, atypical), Pneumocystis choroiditis, cryptococcal chorioretinitis, Candida endophthalmitis
Immunocompromised (transplant, biologics)CMV, atypical fungal, atypical TB, viral (VZV)
Post-biologic therapyParadoxical TB reactivation, sarcoid-like syndrome, VKH-like panuveitis (checkpoint inhibitors)

IX. CLASSIFICATION BY GEOGRAPHY / DEMOGRAPHICS (Practical Exam Table)

Region / PopulationCommon Posterior Uveitis
Developing worldTB, toxoplasma, syphilis, onchocerciasis, DUSN
Middle East / Mediterranean / AsianBehcet disease (HLA-B51)
Japan / HispanicVKH (HLA-DR4)
Ohio-Mississippi valley USAOHS (Histoplasma)
Northern EuropeansBirdshot chorioretinopathy (HLA-A29)
Sub-Saharan Africa / Central AmericaOnchocerciasis
HIV-endemic regionsCMV retinitis, Pneumocystis choroiditis
ChildrenToxocariasis, JIA-associated uveitis

QUICK SUMMARY TABLE

Classification AxisCategories
Anatomical (SUN)Retinitis / Choroiditis / Chorioretinitis / Retinochoroiditis / Neuroretinitis / Retinal vasculitis
Temporal (SUN)Acute / Recurrent / Chronic
EtiologyInfectious / Non-infectious / Masquerade
GranulomatousGranulomatous / Non-granulomatous
LateralityUnilateral / Bilateral / Asymmetric
LayerOuter retina-RPE / Inner choroid / Full-thickness retina / Retinal vessels / Subretinal
Host immunityImmunocompetent / Immunocompromised
Systemic associationIsolated ocular / Associated systemic disease
MorphologyFocal / Multifocal / Geographic / Placoid / Serpentine / Necrotizing / Punched-out

Sources: AAO BCSC 2025-26 Section 9; SUN Working Group 2021 Classification Criteria; Kanski's Clinical Ophthalmology 10th ed.

Create a diagnostic flowchart PDF for differentiating posterior uveitis entities

Reading File
Running Command

ls /home/daytona/workspace/ && python3 -c "import reportlab; print('reportlab ok…

Running Command

mkdir -p /home/daytona/workspace/posterior-uveitis-flowchart

Writing File

~/posterior-uveitis-flowchart/generate_flowchart.py

#!/usr/bin/env python3
"""
Diagnostic Flowchart PDF for Differentiating Posterior Uveitis Entities
AAO BCSC 2025-26 / SUN 2021 criteria based
"""

from reportlab.lib.pagesizes import A3, landscape
from reportlab.lib import colors
from reportlab.lib.units import mm, cm
from reportlab.pdfgen import canvas
from reportlab.lib.styles import getSampleStyleSheet
from reportlab.platypus import Paragraph
from reportlab.lib.enums import TA_CENTER, TA_LEFT
import os

OUTPUT_PATH = "/home/daytona/workspace/posterior-uveitis-flowchart/Posterior_Uveitis_Diagnostic_Flowchart.pdf"

# ── Colour palette ──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
C_TITLE_BG    = colors.HexColor("#1B3A6B")   # dark navy
C_TITLE_FG    = colors.white
C_START       = colors.HexColor("#1B3A6B")   # dark navy
C_QUESTION    = colors.HexColor("#1565C0")   # blue
C_INFECT      = colors.HexColor("#B71C1C")   # deep red
C_NONINFECT   = colors.HexColor("#1B5E20")   # deep green
C_MASQUERADE  = colors.HexColor("#4A148C")   # deep purple
C_ENTITY      = colors.HexColor("#E3F2FD")   # very light blue bg
C_ENTITY_BRD  = colors.HexColor("#1565C0")   # blue border
C_INF_BG      = colors.HexColor("#FFEBEE")   # light red bg
C_INF_BRD     = colors.HexColor("#B71C1C")
C_NONINF_BG   = colors.HexColor("#E8F5E9")   # light green bg
C_NONINF_BRD  = colors.HexColor("#2E7D32")
C_MASK_BG     = colors.HexColor("#EDE7F6")   # light purple bg
C_MASK_BRD    = colors.HexColor("#6A1B9A")
C_ARROW       = colors.HexColor("#37474F")
C_YES         = colors.HexColor("#2E7D32")
C_NO          = colors.HexColor("#B71C1C")
C_SECTION_HDR = colors.HexColor("#E3F2FD")
C_WARN        = colors.HexColor("#FFF8E1")
C_WARN_BRD    = colors.HexColor("#F9A825")
C_HIGHLIGHT   = colors.HexColor("#FF6F00")   # amber for key rule
C_FOOTER      = colors.HexColor("#546E7A")

PAGE_W, PAGE_H = landscape(A3)

def rounded_rect(c, x, y, w, h, r=4*mm, fill_color=None, stroke_color=None,
                 stroke_width=1):
    if fill_color:
        c.setFillColor(fill_color)
    if stroke_color:
        c.setStrokeColor(stroke_color)
        c.setLineWidth(stroke_width)
    c.roundRect(x, y, w, h, r, fill=1 if fill_color else 0,
                stroke=1 if stroke_color else 0)

def diamond(c, cx, cy, w, h, fill_color, stroke_color, stroke_width=1.5):
    """Draw a diamond shape centred at (cx, cy)."""
    path = c.beginPath()
    path.moveTo(cx,        cy + h/2)
    path.lineTo(cx + w/2,  cy)
    path.lineTo(cx,        cy - h/2)
    path.lineTo(cx - w/2,  cy)
    path.close()
    c.setFillColor(fill_color)
    c.setStrokeColor(stroke_color)
    c.setLineWidth(stroke_width)
    c.drawPath(path, fill=1, stroke=1)

def arrow(c, x1, y1, x2, y2, color=C_ARROW, width=1.2, label=None,
          label_color=C_ARROW, label_size=7):
    c.setStrokeColor(color)
    c.setLineWidth(width)
    c.line(x1, y1, x2, y2)
    # arrowhead
    import math
    angle = math.atan2(y2-y1, x2-x1)
    hs = 5*mm
    c.setFillColor(color)
    path = c.beginPath()
    path.moveTo(x2, y2)
    path.lineTo(x2 - hs*math.cos(angle-0.4),
                y2 - hs*math.sin(angle-0.4))
    path.lineTo(x2 - hs*math.cos(angle+0.4),
                y2 - hs*math.sin(angle+0.4))
    path.close()
    c.drawPath(path, fill=1, stroke=0)
    if label:
        mx, my = (x1+x2)/2, (y1+y2)/2
        c.setFillColor(label_color)
        c.setFont("Helvetica-Bold", label_size)
        c.drawCentredString(mx, my+2*mm, label)

def text_box(c, x, y, w, h, text, font="Helvetica", size=7.5,
             fg=colors.black, bg=None, border=None, bw=1,
             align="centre", radius=3*mm, bold_first_line=False):
    if bg:
        rounded_rect(c, x, y, w, h, r=radius, fill_color=bg,
                     stroke_color=border or bg, stroke_width=bw)
    if border and not bg:
        rounded_rect(c, x, y, w, h, r=radius, stroke_color=border,
                     stroke_width=bw)

    lines = text.strip().split('\n')
    line_h = size * 1.35
    total_text_h = len(lines) * line_h
    start_y = y + h/2 + total_text_h/2 - line_h*0.8

    for i, line in enumerate(lines):
        ly = start_y - i*line_h
        fn = (font+"-Bold") if (bold_first_line and i == 0) else font
        # clamp font name
        try:
            c.setFont(fn, size)
        except Exception:
            c.setFont("Helvetica", size)
        c.setFillColor(fg)
        if align == "centre":
            c.drawCentredString(x + w/2, ly, line)
        elif align == "left":
            c.drawString(x + 3*mm, ly, line)

def section_header(c, x, y, w, h, text, bg=C_TITLE_BG, fg=C_TITLE_FG):
    rounded_rect(c, x, y, w, h, r=3*mm, fill_color=bg, stroke_color=bg)
    c.setFont("Helvetica-Bold", 9)
    c.setFillColor(fg)
    c.drawCentredString(x+w/2, y+h/2-3, text)


# ─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
def build_pdf():
    c = canvas.Canvas(OUTPUT_PATH, pagesize=landscape(A3))
    W, H = PAGE_W, PAGE_H   # 420 × 297 mm

    # ── PAGE 1 ── MASTER OVERVIEW FLOWCHART ───────────────────────────────
    draw_page1(c, W, H)
    c.showPage()

    # ── PAGE 2 ── INFECTIOUS POSTERIOR UVEITIS ─────────────────────────────
    draw_page2(c, W, H)
    c.showPage()

    # ── PAGE 3 ── NON-INFECTIOUS POSTERIOR UVEITIS ────────────────────────
    draw_page3(c, W, H)
    c.showPage()

    # ── PAGE 4 ── INVESTIGATION & TREATMENT QUICK-REFERENCE ──────────────
    draw_page4(c, W, H)
    c.showPage()

    c.save()
    print(f"PDF saved: {OUTPUT_PATH}")


# ─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
# PAGE 1 — MASTER DIAGNOSTIC OVERVIEW
# ─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
def draw_page1(c, W, H):
    M = 10*mm
    # Background
    c.setFillColor(colors.HexColor("#F5F7FA"))
    c.rect(0, 0, W, H, fill=1, stroke=0)

    # Title bar
    c.setFillColor(C_TITLE_BG)
    c.rect(0, H-20*mm, W, 20*mm, fill=1, stroke=0)
    c.setFillColor(colors.white)
    c.setFont("Helvetica-Bold", 16)
    c.drawCentredString(W/2, H-13*mm, "DIAGNOSTIC FLOWCHART: DIFFERENTIATING POSTERIOR UVEITIS ENTITIES")
    c.setFont("Helvetica", 8)
    c.drawCentredString(W/2, H-18*mm,
        "Based on AAO BCSC 2025-26 Section 9 | SUN Working Group 2021 | Kanski's Clinical Ophthalmology 10th ed.")

    # KEY RULE banner
    bx, by, bw, bh = M, H-33*mm, W-2*M, 9*mm
    rounded_rect(c, bx, by, bw, bh, r=2*mm,
                 fill_color=C_WARN, stroke_color=C_HIGHLIGHT, stroke_width=2)
    c.setFont("Helvetica-Bold", 8.5)
    c.setFillColor(C_HIGHLIGHT)
    c.drawCentredString(W/2, by+bh/2-3,
        "KEY RULE:  Always test ALL patients for SYPHILIS (FTA-Abs/MHA-TP + RPR/VDRL).  "
        "Screen for TB (IGRA) when systemic IMT planned or when TB pattern suspected.")

    # ── STEP 1: PRESENTATION ──────────────────────────────────────────────
    y0 = H - 45*mm
    # Start oval
    sw, sh = 60*mm, 10*mm
    sx = W/2 - sw/2
    rounded_rect(c, sx, y0, sw, sh, r=5*mm,
                 fill_color=C_START, stroke_color=C_START)
    c.setFont("Helvetica-Bold", 9)
    c.setFillColor(colors.white)
    c.drawCentredString(W/2, y0+sh/2-3, "PATIENT WITH POSTERIOR UVEITIS")

    arrow(c, W/2, y0, W/2, y0-8*mm, color=C_ARROW, width=1.5)

    # Step boxes row 1: 4 diagnostic steps
    steps = [
        ("STEP 1\nSYMPTOMS",
         "Blurred vision (painless)\nFloaters / Photopsias\nScotoma / Metamorphopsia\nNyctalopia"),
        ("STEP 2\nHISTORY",
         "Age / Sex / Ethnicity\nSystemic Sx & ROS\nImmune status / HIV\nTravel / Exposures / Meds"),
        ("STEP 3\nEXAMINATION",
         "SLE: KP type, AC cells\nVitreous: haze + cells\nFundus: retinitis/choroiditis\nVasculitis / Disc / Macula"),
        ("STEP 4\nIMAGING",
         "OCT (CME, SRF, choroid)\nFA (vasculitis, leakage)\nICGA (choroidal lesions)\nFAF / B-scan / ERG"),
    ]
    step_y = y0 - 8*mm - 22*mm
    sw2 = (W - 2*M - 9*mm) / 4
    for i, (title, body) in enumerate(steps):
        bx2 = M + i*(sw2 + 3*mm)
        rounded_rect(c, bx2, step_y, sw2, 22*mm, r=3*mm,
                     fill_color=colors.HexColor("#1565C0"),
                     stroke_color=colors.HexColor("#0D47A1"), stroke_width=1.5)
        c.setFont("Helvetica-Bold", 8)
        c.setFillColor(colors.white)
        c.drawCentredString(bx2+sw2/2, step_y+22*mm-6*mm, title.split('\n')[0])
        c.setFont("Helvetica-Bold", 7.5)
        c.drawCentredString(bx2+sw2/2, step_y+22*mm-11*mm, title.split('\n')[1])
        lines = body.split('\n')
        lh = 4.2*mm
        for j, ln in enumerate(lines):
            c.setFont("Helvetica", 7)
            c.setFillColor(colors.HexColor("#E3F2FD"))
            c.drawCentredString(bx2+sw2/2, step_y+14*mm - j*lh, ln)

    # Connect steps with horizontal arrow
    for i in range(3):
        ax = M + (i+1)*(sw2 + 3*mm) - 3*mm
        ay = step_y + 11*mm
        arrow(c, ax, ay, ax+3*mm, ay, color=colors.white, width=1)

    # Down arrow to PATTERN RECOGNITION
    arrow(c, W/2, step_y, W/2, step_y-8*mm, color=C_ARROW, width=1.5)

    # Pattern recognition box
    pr_y = step_y - 8*mm - 12*mm
    pr_w = 100*mm
    rounded_rect(c, W/2-pr_w/2, pr_y, pr_w, 12*mm, r=3*mm,
                 fill_color=colors.HexColor("#37474F"),
                 stroke_color=colors.HexColor("#263238"), stroke_width=1.5)
    c.setFont("Helvetica-Bold", 9)
    c.setFillColor(colors.white)
    c.drawCentredString(W/2, pr_y+12*mm-5*mm, "STEP 5: PATTERN RECOGNITION")
    c.setFont("Helvetica", 7.5)
    c.drawCentredString(W/2, pr_y+4*mm, "→ Formulate working differential diagnosis")

    # Arrow to 3-branch diamond
    arrow(c, W/2, pr_y, W/2, pr_y-9*mm, color=C_ARROW, width=1.5)

    # Diamond question
    diam_cy = pr_y - 9*mm - 10*mm
    diamond(c, W/2, diam_cy, 80*mm, 20*mm,
            fill_color=colors.HexColor("#FFF9C4"),
            stroke_color=colors.HexColor("#F57F17"), stroke_width=2)
    c.setFont("Helvetica-Bold", 8)
    c.setFillColor(colors.HexColor("#E65100"))
    c.drawCentredString(W/2, diam_cy+3*mm, "Evidence of INFECTION")
    c.drawCentredString(W/2, diam_cy-3*mm, "or MASQUERADE?")

    # Three branches
    branch_y = diam_cy - 10*mm
    bx_inf  = M + 5*mm
    bx_noni = W/2 - 25*mm
    bx_mask = W - M - 5*mm - 70*mm

    # YES (infectious) → left
    arrow(c, W/2 - 40*mm, diam_cy, bx_inf + 35*mm, diam_cy,
          color=C_YES, width=1.5, label="YES - Infection", label_color=C_YES, label_size=7.5)
    arrow(c, bx_inf + 35*mm, diam_cy, bx_inf + 35*mm, branch_y,
          color=C_YES, width=1.5)

    # NO (non-infectious) → centre
    arrow(c, W/2, diam_cy - 10*mm, W/2, branch_y,
          color=C_NO, width=1.5, label="NO", label_color=C_NO, label_size=7.5)

    # MASQUERADE → right
    arrow(c, W/2 + 40*mm, diam_cy, bx_mask + 35*mm, diam_cy,
          color=C_MASK_BRD, width=1.5, label="?Masquerade", label_color=C_MASK_BRD, label_size=7.5)
    arrow(c, bx_mask + 35*mm, diam_cy, bx_mask + 35*mm, branch_y,
          color=C_MASK_BRD, width=1.5)

    # Three main category boxes
    cat_h = 55*mm

    # INFECTIOUS
    ix = M
    iw = W/3 - M - 3*mm
    iy = branch_y - cat_h
    rounded_rect(c, ix, iy, iw, cat_h, r=4*mm,
                 fill_color=C_INF_BG, stroke_color=C_INF_BRD, stroke_width=2)
    section_header(c, ix, iy+cat_h-10*mm, iw, 10*mm,
                   "INFECTIOUS POSTERIOR UVEITIS", bg=C_INFECT)
    inf_items = [
        ("PARASITIC", "Toxoplasma (most common worldwide)"),
        ("", "Toxocariasis | DUSN | Cysticercosis"),
        ("VIRAL", "ARN/BARN/PORN (HSV, VZV)"),
        ("", "CMV retinitis (CD4 <50)  |  HIV"),
        ("BACTERIAL", "TB | Syphilis | Bartonella | Brucella"),
        ("", "Lyme | Whipple | Nocardia"),
        ("FUNGAL", "Candida | Aspergillus | OHS"),
        ("", "Cryptococcus | Pneumocystis"),
    ]
    lh2 = 5.8*mm
    for k, (cat, detail) in enumerate(inf_items):
        ky = iy + cat_h - 14*mm - k*lh2
        if cat:
            c.setFont("Helvetica-Bold", 7.5)
            c.setFillColor(C_INFECT)
            c.drawString(ix+3*mm, ky, cat + ":")
        c.setFont("Helvetica", 7)
        c.setFillColor(colors.HexColor("#37474F"))
        c.drawString(ix + (22*mm if cat else 3*mm), ky, detail)

    # NON-INFECTIOUS
    nx = W/3 + 2*mm
    nw = W/3 - 4*mm
    ny = branch_y - cat_h
    rounded_rect(c, nx, ny, nw, cat_h, r=4*mm,
                 fill_color=C_NONINF_BG, stroke_color=C_NONINF_BRD, stroke_width=2)
    section_header(c, nx, ny+cat_h-10*mm, nw, 10*mm,
                   "NON-INFECTIOUS POSTERIOR UVEITIS", bg=C_NONINFECT)
    noninf_items = [
        ("WHITE DOT", "Birdshot (HLA-A29)"),
        ("SYNDROMES", "APMPPE  |  Serpiginous choroiditis"),
        ("", "MFCPU / PIC / SFU  |  MEWDS  |  AZOOR"),
        ("SYSTEMIC", "Sarcoidosis  |  VKH syndrome"),
        ("ASSOC.", "Behcet disease  |  Sympathetic ophthalmia"),
        ("", "SLE  |  PAN  |  GPA  |  Susac syndrome"),
        ("IDIOPATHIC", "Undifferentiated / Idiopathic"),
        ("", "(after exclusion of all above)"),
    ]
    for k, (cat, detail) in enumerate(noninf_items):
        ky = ny + cat_h - 14*mm - k*lh2
        if cat:
            c.setFont("Helvetica-Bold", 7.5)
            c.setFillColor(C_NONINFECT)
            c.drawString(nx+3*mm, ky, cat + ":")
        c.setFont("Helvetica", 7)
        c.setFillColor(colors.HexColor("#37474F"))
        c.drawString(nx + (24*mm if cat else 3*mm), ky, detail)

    # MASQUERADE
    mx2 = 2*W/3 + 2*mm
    mw = W/3 - M - 5*mm
    my2 = branch_y - cat_h
    rounded_rect(c, mx2, my2, mw, cat_h, r=4*mm,
                 fill_color=C_MASK_BG, stroke_color=C_MASK_BRD, stroke_width=2)
    section_header(c, mx2, my2+cat_h-10*mm, mw, 10*mm,
                   "MASQUERADE SYNDROMES", bg=C_MASQUERADE)
    mask_items = [
        ("NEOPLASTIC", "Vitreoretinal lymphoma (PVRL)"),
        ("", "Uveal lymphoma | Leukemia"),
        ("", "Choroidal metastases"),
        ("", "Malignant melanoma | Retinoblastoma"),
        ("PARANEO-", "CAR (anti-recoverin)"),
        ("PLASTIC", "MAR (melanoma-assoc. retinopathy)"),
        ("OTHER", "Retinitis pigmentosa | RD"),
        ("", "Ocular ischemic syndrome"),
    ]
    for k, (cat, detail) in enumerate(mask_items):
        ky = my2 + cat_h - 14*mm - k*lh2
        if cat:
            c.setFont("Helvetica-Bold", 7.5)
            c.setFillColor(C_MASQUERADE)
            c.drawString(mx2+3*mm, ky, cat + ":")
        c.setFont("Helvetica", 7)
        c.setFillColor(colors.HexColor("#37474F"))
        c.drawString(mx2 + (24*mm if cat else 3*mm), ky, detail)

    # ── INVESTIGATIONS row ───────────────────────────────────────────────
    arrow(c, ix+iw/2, iy, ix+iw/2, iy-7*mm, color=C_INFECT, width=1.2)
    arrow(c, nx+nw/2, ny, nx+nw/2, ny-7*mm, color=C_NONINFECT, width=1.2)
    arrow(c, mx2+mw/2, my2, mx2+mw/2, my2-7*mm, color=C_MASQUERADE, width=1.2)

    inv_y = iy - 7*mm - 16*mm
    inv_items = [
        (ix, iw, C_INF_BG, C_INF_BRD, C_INFECT,
         "TARGETED INVESTIGATIONS",
         "Syphilis: FTA-Abs + RPR/VDRL\nIGRA / PPD  |  CXR\nToxoplasma IgG/IgM\nVitreous/Aqueous PCR\nHIV CD4 count\nFungal serology"),
        (nx, nw, C_NONINF_BG, C_NONINF_BRD, C_NONINFECT,
         "TARGETED INVESTIGATIONS",
         "Syphilis + TB (exclude first!)\nHLA-A29 (Birdshot)\nACE + Lysozyme (Sarcoid)\nANA/dsDNA (SLE)\nCSF (VKH/sarcoid/lymphoma)\nERG + VF (Birdshot/AZOOR)"),
        (mx2, mw, C_MASK_BG, C_MASK_BRD, C_MASQUERADE,
         "TARGETED INVESTIGATIONS",
         "Vitrectomy: cytology\nIL-10:IL-6 ratio (>1 = VRL)\nMYD88 mutation\nBrain MRI\nARA antibodies (CAR/MAR)\nOncology workup"),
    ]
    for (bx3, bw3, bg3, brd3, hdr_c, hdr, body) in inv_items:
        rounded_rect(c, bx3, inv_y, bw3, 16*mm, r=3*mm, fill_color=bg3,
                     stroke_color=brd3, stroke_width=1.5)
        c.setFont("Helvetica-Bold", 7.5)
        c.setFillColor(hdr_c)
        c.drawCentredString(bx3+bw3/2, inv_y+16*mm-5*mm, hdr)
        lines = body.split('\n')
        lh3 = 3.8*mm
        for j2, ln2 in enumerate(lines):
            c.setFont("Helvetica", 6.5)
            c.setFillColor(colors.HexColor("#37474F"))
            c.drawCentredString(bx3+bw3/2, inv_y+12*mm - j2*lh3, ln2)

    # Footer
    c.setFont("Helvetica", 6.5)
    c.setFillColor(C_FOOTER)
    c.drawCentredString(W/2, 5*mm,
        "Page 1 of 4  |  For educational use  |  "
        "AAO BCSC 2025-26, SUN 2021, Kanski's 10th ed.  |  "
        "See Pages 2-4 for detailed sub-flowcharts")


# ─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
# PAGE 2 — INFECTIOUS POSTERIOR UVEITIS FLOWCHART
# ─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
def draw_page2(c, W, H):
    # Background
    c.setFillColor(colors.HexColor("#FFF8F8"))
    c.rect(0, 0, W, H, fill=1, stroke=0)

    # Title
    c.setFillColor(C_INFECT)
    c.rect(0, H-20*mm, W, 20*mm, fill=1, stroke=0)
    c.setFont("Helvetica-Bold", 14)
    c.setFillColor(colors.white)
    c.drawCentredString(W/2, H-12*mm, "INFECTIOUS POSTERIOR UVEITIS — DIFFERENTIAL DIAGNOSIS FLOWCHART")
    c.setFont("Helvetica", 8)
    c.drawCentredString(W/2, H-17.5*mm, "AAO BCSC 2025-26  |  SUN 2021")

    M = 8*mm
    # ── IMMUNE STATUS diamond ─────────────────────────────────────────────
    arrow(c, W/2, H-20*mm, W/2, H-33*mm, color=C_ARROW)
    diamond(c, W/2, H-40*mm, 80*mm, 18*mm,
            fill_color=colors.HexColor("#FFF9C4"),
            stroke_color=colors.HexColor("#F57F17"), stroke_width=2)
    c.setFont("Helvetica-Bold", 8.5)
    c.setFillColor(colors.HexColor("#E65100"))
    c.drawCentredString(W/2, H-39*mm, "IMMUNOCOMPROMISED?")
    c.drawCentredString(W/2, H-43.5*mm, "(HIV CD4<50 / transplant / chemotherapy)")

    # YES branch (right) → immunocompromised
    arrow(c, W/2+40*mm, H-40*mm, W-M-50*mm, H-40*mm,
          color=C_YES, width=1.5, label="YES", label_color=C_YES)
    arrow(c, W-M-50*mm, H-40*mm, W-M-50*mm, H-52*mm,
          color=C_YES, width=1.5)

    # NO branch (down) → immunocompetent
    arrow(c, W/2, H-49*mm, W/2, H-62*mm,
          color=C_NO, width=1.5, label="NO", label_color=C_NO)

    # ── IMMUNOCOMPETENT branch ───────────────────────────────────────────
    # Second diamond: Focal lesion adjacent to scar?
    diamond(c, W/2, H-69*mm, 85*mm, 18*mm,
            fill_color=colors.HexColor("#FEFDE7"),
            stroke_color=colors.HexColor("#F9A825"), stroke_width=1.5)
    c.setFont("Helvetica-Bold", 8)
    c.setFillColor(colors.HexColor("#E65100"))
    c.drawCentredString(W/2, H-68*mm, "FOCAL lesion adjacent")
    c.drawCentredString(W/2, H-72.5*mm, "to OLD PIGMENTED SCAR?")

    # YES → Toxoplasma
    tx = W/2 - 42.5*mm
    arrow(c, tx, H-69*mm, tx-15*mm, H-69*mm,
          color=C_YES, width=1.5, label="YES", label_color=C_YES)
    arrow(c, tx-15*mm, H-69*mm, tx-15*mm, H-80*mm, color=C_YES, width=1.5)

    tox_bx = M
    tox_w = 70*mm
    tox_y = H-80*mm - 28*mm
    rounded_rect(c, tox_bx, tox_y, tox_w, 28*mm, r=4*mm,
                 fill_color=C_INF_BG, stroke_color=C_INFECT, stroke_width=2)
    section_header(c, tox_bx, tox_y+28*mm-10*mm, tox_w, 10*mm,
                   "TOXOPLASMA CHORIORETINITIS", bg=C_INFECT)
    tox_lines = [
        "Most common infect. PU worldwide",
        "\"Headlight in fog\" appearance",
        "Focal vitritis overlying lesion",
        "Dx: Clinical; Toxoplasma IgG; AQ PCR",
        "Rx: Pyrimethamine + Sulfadiazine",
        "+ Folinic acid ± Prednisolone",
    ]
    for k, ln in enumerate(tox_lines):
        c.setFont("Helvetica", 7)
        c.setFillColor(colors.HexColor("#37474F"))
        c.drawString(tox_bx+3*mm, tox_y+17*mm - k*3.8*mm, ln)

    # NO → further questions
    arrow(c, W/2, H-78*mm, W/2, H-91*mm,
          color=C_NO, width=1.5, label="NO", label_color=C_NO)

    # Third diamond: Necrotizing peripheral retinitis?
    diamond(c, W/2, H-97*mm, 85*mm, 16*mm,
            fill_color=colors.HexColor("#FEFDE7"),
            stroke_color=colors.HexColor("#F9A825"), stroke_width=1.5)
    c.setFont("Helvetica-Bold", 8)
    c.setFillColor(colors.HexColor("#E65100"))
    c.drawCentredString(W/2, H-96*mm, "PERIPHERAL NECROTIZING")
    c.drawCentredString(W/2, H-100*mm, "RETINITIS + ARTERITIS?")

    # YES → ARN
    arrow(c, W/2-42.5*mm, H-97*mm, W/2-65*mm, H-97*mm,
          color=C_YES, width=1.5, label="YES", label_color=C_YES)
    arrow(c, W/2-65*mm, H-97*mm, W/2-65*mm, H-108*mm, color=C_YES, width=1.5)

    arn_x = M
    arn_w = 95*mm
    arn_y = H-108*mm - 35*mm
    rounded_rect(c, arn_x, arn_y, arn_w, 35*mm, r=4*mm,
                 fill_color=C_INF_BG, stroke_color=C_INFECT, stroke_width=2)
    section_header(c, arn_x, arn_y+35*mm-10*mm, arn_w, 10*mm,
                   "ACUTE RETINAL NECROSIS (ARN) — HSV/VZV", bg=C_INFECT)
    arn_lines = [
        "ARN TRIAD: peripheral necrosis + circumferential spread",
        "+ occlusive arteritis  |  Moderate-severe vitritis",
        "VZV most common; BARN = bilateral (30% within 6wk)",
        "PORN: immunocompromised, rapid, minimal vitritis",
        "Dx: AQ/vitreous PCR (HSV-1/2, VZV) — highly specific",
        "Rx: IV Acyclovir 10mg/kg TID x 7d → oral Valacyclovir",
        "     1g TDS x 14 weeks  |  Prophylactic laser (RD risk 75%)",
    ]
    for k, ln in enumerate(arn_lines):
        c.setFont("Helvetica", 7)
        c.setFillColor(colors.HexColor("#37474F"))
        c.drawString(arn_x+3*mm, arn_y+24*mm - k*4*mm, ln)

    # NO → TB / Syphilis / Bacterial
    arrow(c, W/2+42.5*mm, H-97*mm, W/2+65*mm, H-97*mm,
          color=C_NO, width=1.5, label="NO", label_color=C_NO)
    arrow(c, W/2+65*mm, H-97*mm, W/2+65*mm, H-108*mm, color=C_NO, width=1.5)

    tbsyph_x = W/2 + 25*mm
    tbsyph_w = W - M - tbsyph_x
    tbsyph_y = H-108*mm - 35*mm
    rounded_rect(c, tbsyph_x, tbsyph_y, tbsyph_w, 35*mm, r=4*mm,
                 fill_color=C_INF_BG, stroke_color=C_INFECT, stroke_width=2)
    section_header(c, tbsyph_x, tbsyph_y+35*mm-10*mm, tbsyph_w, 10*mm,
                   "TB / SYPHILIS / BACTERIAL / FUNGAL", bg=C_INFECT)
    tbsyph_lines = [
        "TB: serpiginous-like / choroidal granuloma /",
        "    retinal vasculitis  — IGRA + CXR/CT",
        "SYPHILIS: \"great imitator\" — any pattern",
        "    FTA-Abs/MHA-TP + RPR/VDRL (all patients!)",
        "BARTONELLA: neuroretinitis (stellate macular star)",
        "FUNGAL: Candida (IV drug use / indwelling lines)",
        "    Histoplasma: OHS pattern (endemic regions)",
    ]
    for k, ln in enumerate(tbsyph_lines):
        c.setFont("Helvetica", 7)
        c.setFillColor(colors.HexColor("#37474F"))
        c.drawString(tbsyph_x+3*mm, tbsyph_y+24*mm - k*4*mm, ln)

    # ── IMMUNOCOMPROMISED branch ──────────────────────────────────────────
    ic_x = W - M - 95*mm
    ic_w = 95*mm
    ic_y = H-52*mm - 90*mm
    rounded_rect(c, ic_x, ic_y, ic_w, 90*mm, r=4*mm,
                 fill_color=C_INF_BG, stroke_color=C_INFECT, stroke_width=2)
    section_header(c, ic_x, ic_y+90*mm-10*mm, ic_w, 10*mm,
                   "IMMUNOCOMPROMISED HOST", bg=C_INFECT)

    ic_blocks = [
        ("CMV RETINITIS (CD4 <50)",
         "Brush-fire border; full-thickness necrosis\n\"Pizza pie\" hemorrhage + necrosis\nDx: CD4 count; vitreous CMV PCR\nRx: IV Ganciclovir → Valganciclovir\n     + HAART (most important)"),
        ("PORN — VZV (CD4 <50)",
         "Rapid outer retinal necrosis\nMinimal vitritis; perivenous sparing\nVery poor prognosis\nRx: IV Acyclovir + Ganciclovir + HAART"),
        ("TOXOPLASMA (atypical)",
         "Bilateral; multifocal; no old scar\nVitreous/AQ PCR; CD4 count\nRx: Pyrimethamine + Sulfa (longer course)"),
        ("FUNGAL (Candida/Aspergillus)",
         "IV drug use; indwelling lines; TPN\nDx: Blood cultures; beta-D-glucan\nRx: Systemic antifungal + vitrectomy"),
    ]
    blk_y = ic_y + 78*mm
    for bname, btext in ic_blocks:
        blk_y -= 20*mm
        c.setFont("Helvetica-Bold", 7.5)
        c.setFillColor(C_INFECT)
        c.drawString(ic_x+3*mm, blk_y, "► " + bname)
        lines = btext.split('\n')
        for j, ln in enumerate(lines):
            c.setFont("Helvetica", 6.8)
            c.setFillColor(colors.HexColor("#37474F"))
            c.drawString(ic_x+5*mm, blk_y-4*mm - j*3.6*mm, ln)

    # Footer
    c.setFont("Helvetica", 6.5)
    c.setFillColor(C_FOOTER)
    c.drawCentredString(W/2, 5*mm,
        "Page 2 of 4  |  Infectious Posterior Uveitis  |  "
        "AAO BCSC 2025-26 | See Page 1 for Master Flowchart")


# ─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
# PAGE 3 — NON-INFECTIOUS POSTERIOR UVEITIS
# ─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
def draw_page3(c, W, H):
    c.setFillColor(colors.HexColor("#F1F8E9"))
    c.rect(0, 0, W, H, fill=1, stroke=0)

    c.setFillColor(C_NONINFECT)
    c.rect(0, H-20*mm, W, 20*mm, fill=1, stroke=0)
    c.setFont("Helvetica-Bold", 13)
    c.setFillColor(colors.white)
    c.drawCentredString(W/2, H-12*mm,
        "NON-INFECTIOUS POSTERIOR UVEITIS — DIFFERENTIAL DIAGNOSIS FLOWCHART")
    c.setFont("Helvetica", 8)
    c.drawCentredString(W/2, H-17.5*mm,
        "AAO BCSC 2025-26  |  SUN 2021  |  After EXCLUDING infection (syphilis, TB, viral)")

    M = 8*mm
    # Important warning
    bw, bh = W-2*M, 8*mm
    rounded_rect(c, M, H-30*mm, bw, bh, r=2*mm,
                 fill_color=C_WARN, stroke_color=C_WARN_BRD, stroke_width=1.5)
    c.setFont("Helvetica-Bold", 8)
    c.setFillColor(colors.HexColor("#E65100"))
    c.drawCentredString(W/2, H-30*mm+bh/2-3,
        "PREREQUISITE: Exclude SYPHILIS and TB before labelling as non-infectious.  "
        "Serpiginous choroiditis pattern → TB MUST be excluded first.")

    # ── TWO-COLUMN LAYOUT ─────────────────────────────────────────────────
    # Left: WHITE DOT SYNDROMES
    # Right: SYSTEMIC / VASCULITIC

    col_y_top = H-42*mm
    lcol_x = M
    lcol_w = W*0.52 - M - 3*mm
    rcol_x = W*0.52 + 3*mm
    rcol_w = W - rcol_x - M

    # LEFT COLUMN HEADER
    section_header(c, lcol_x, col_y_top, lcol_w, 9*mm,
                   "WHITE DOT SYNDROMES  (Usually no systemic disease)", bg=C_NONINFECT)

    wds_entities = [
        ("BIRDSHOT CHORIORETINOPATHY",
         "HLA-A29+ (96% sens)  |  Middle-aged  |  N. European\n"
         "Cream ovoid lesions; radial from disc; 50-1500µm\n"
         "Diffuse retinal vasculitis  |  Minimal AC cells\n"
         "⚠ VA may be 20/20 while VF/ERG progressively worsen\n"
         "Dx: HLA-A29; full-field ERG; Humphrey 24-2 VF; FA/ICGA\n"
         "Rx: Long-term IMT (MTX/MMF/AZA ± TNF inhibitor)"),
        ("APMPPE",
         "Bilateral placoid grey-white lesions; young adult; viral prodrome\n"
         "FA: early blockage → late staining (choriocapillaritis)\n"
         "Usually SELF-LIMITED; beware cerebrovasculitis (headache/CSF)\n"
         "Dx: Clinical + FA/ICGA/FAF; rule out TB+syphilis\n"
         "Rx: Observation; systemic steroids if CNS involvement"),
        ("SERPIGINOUS CHOROIDITIS",
         "Serpentine; peripapillary origin; progressive atrophy\n"
         "FA: early hypoFl → late staining at active border\n"
         "⚠ TB-associated serpiginous-like choroiditis MUST be excluded\n"
         "Dx: Clinical + FA + OCT; IGRA/PPD mandatory\n"
         "Rx: Triple IMT (antimetabolite + T-cell inhibitor ± alkylating)"),
        ("MFCPU / PIC / SFU",
         "Young myopic women  |  Multifocal punched-out scars\n"
         "MFCPU: vitritis + AC cells  |  PIC: no vitritis\n"
         "SFU: progressive subretinal fibrosis; worst prognosis\n"
         "DD: Sarcoid / OHS / TB / Birdshot\n"
         "Rx: Systemic IMT essential (83% reduction in complications)"),
        ("MEWDS",
         "Young female  |  Unilateral  |  Self-limited\n"
         "Perifoveal white dots; peau d'orange fovea; ↑blind spot\n"
         "ERG: reversible ↓a-wave; ICGA: hypocyanescent spots\n"
         "Rx: Observation; resolves in weeks"),
        ("AZOOR",
         "Outer retinal degeneration  |  Photopsias; zonal VF loss\n"
         "Fundus may be NORMAL at presentation\n"
         "ERG: markedly abnormal  |  FAF: hypoAF zones\n"
         "Rx: Systemic steroids/IMT; variable response"),
    ]

    ent_y = col_y_top
    ent_h_list = [25*mm, 22*mm, 22*mm, 22*mm, 18*mm, 18*mm]
    for i, ((ename, ebody), eh) in enumerate(zip(wds_entities, ent_h_list)):
        ent_y -= eh + 1.5*mm
        if ent_y < 10*mm: break
        rounded_rect(c, lcol_x, ent_y, lcol_w, eh, r=3*mm,
                     fill_color=C_NONINF_BG, stroke_color=C_NONINF_BRD, stroke_width=1.5)
        c.setFont("Helvetica-Bold", 7.5)
        c.setFillColor(C_NONINFECT)
        c.drawString(lcol_x+3*mm, ent_y+eh-6*mm, ename)
        lines = ebody.split('\n')
        for j, ln in enumerate(lines):
            c.setFont("Helvetica", 6.8)
            c.setFillColor(colors.HexColor("#1A237E") if "⚠" in ln else colors.HexColor("#37474F"))
            c.drawString(lcol_x+3*mm, ent_y+eh-11*mm - j*3.8*mm, ln)

    # RIGHT COLUMN
    section_header(c, rcol_x, col_y_top, rcol_w, 9*mm,
                   "POSTERIOR UVEITIS WITH SYSTEMIC MANIFESTATIONS", bg=C_NONINFECT)

    systemic_entities = [
        ("VKH SYNDROME  (Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada)",
         "Prodrome: headache, tinnitus, dysacusis, meningismus\n"
         "EARLY: bilateral granulomatous panuveitis + multiple serous RDs\n"
         "LATE: sunset glow fundus, Sugiura sign, poliosis, vitiligo, alopecia\n"
         "HLA-DR4 (Japanese/Hispanic)  |  CSF: lymphocytic pleocytosis\n"
         "Dx: SUN 2021 criteria; FA (pinpoint hyper-Fl + pooling); EDI-OCT (choroidal ↑↑)\n"
         "Rx: High-dose pred (1mg/kg/d) + early IMT; SLOW taper 6-12 months"),
        ("BEHCET DISEASE",
         "Oral aphthae (≥3/yr) + genital ulcers + ocular inflammation\n"
         "Occlusive retinal vasculitis (arteries + veins); chalky white retinitis\n"
         "HLA-B51; mobile hypopyon (classic but rare)\n"
         "FA: ferning capillaritis; non-perfusion; optic disc leakage\n"
         "Dx: ISG criteria (Table); clinical; HLA-B51 supportive only\n"
         "Rx: TNF inhibitors (infliximab/adalimumab) FIRST-LINE for severe PU"),
        ("SARCOIDOSIS",
         "Multisystem granulomatous disease; lungs (90%), eyes (12-50%)\n"
         "Posterior: small yellow choroidal granulomas; \"candlewax drippings\"\n"
         "ICGA: hypocyanescent spots >> FA findings\n"
         "Dx: CXR (BHL); ACE + lysozyme (sens 61%, spec 88% combined)\n"
         "    Biopsy (non-caseating granuloma) for definitive diagnosis\n"
         "Rx: Local/systemic steroids; IMT (MTX/MMF/AZA); adalimumab/infliximab"),
        ("SYMPATHETIC OPHTHALMIA",
         "BILATERAL granulomatous panuveitis after PENETRATING TRAUMA/SURGERY\n"
         "Exciting eye (injured) → sympathizing eye (fellow eye)\n"
         "Dalen-Fuchs nodules; multiple serous RDs; similar to VKH\n"
         "DD from VKH: history of ocular trauma/surgery\n"
         "Rx: High-dose steroids + IMT; enucleation of NLP traumatized eye"),
        ("SLE / VASCULITIDES",
         "SLE: Retinal arteritis; BRA occlusions; cotton-wool spots\n"
         "      Young woman; ANA/anti-dsDNA/antiphospholipid antibodies\n"
         "PAN: Arteritis; ischemic changes; systemic vasculitis\n"
         "GPA: Scleritis; orbital involvement; c-ANCA; sinusitis\n"
         "Susac: Encephalopathy + SNHL + branch retinal artery occlusions"),
    ]
    sysh_list = [27*mm, 25*mm, 25*mm, 22*mm, 22*mm]
    sys_y = col_y_top
    for i, ((sname, sbody), sh2) in enumerate(zip(systemic_entities, sysh_list)):
        sys_y -= sh2 + 1.5*mm
        if sys_y < 10*mm: break
        rounded_rect(c, rcol_x, sys_y, rcol_w, sh2, r=3*mm,
                     fill_color=C_NONINF_BG, stroke_color=C_NONINF_BRD, stroke_width=1.5)
        c.setFont("Helvetica-Bold", 7.5)
        c.setFillColor(C_NONINFECT)
        c.drawString(rcol_x+3*mm, sys_y+sh2-6*mm, sname)
        slines = sbody.split('\n')
        for j, sln in enumerate(slines):
            c.setFont("Helvetica", 6.8)
            c.setFillColor(colors.HexColor("#37474F"))
            c.drawString(rcol_x+3*mm, sys_y+sh2-11*mm - j*3.8*mm, sln)

    c.setFont("Helvetica", 6.5)
    c.setFillColor(C_FOOTER)
    c.drawCentredString(W/2, 5*mm,
        "Page 3 of 4  |  Non-Infectious Posterior Uveitis  |  "
        "AAO BCSC 2025-26 | See Page 4 for Investigations & Treatment")


# ─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
# PAGE 4 — INVESTIGATIONS & TREATMENT QUICK-REFERENCE
# ─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
def draw_page4(c, W, H):
    c.setFillColor(colors.HexColor("#F3E5F5"))
    c.rect(0, 0, W, H, fill=1, stroke=0)

    c.setFillColor(C_TITLE_BG)
    c.rect(0, H-20*mm, W, 20*mm, fill=1, stroke=0)
    c.setFont("Helvetica-Bold", 13)
    c.setFillColor(colors.white)
    c.drawCentredString(W/2, H-12*mm,
        "POSTERIOR UVEITIS — INVESTIGATIONS & TREATMENT QUICK-REFERENCE")
    c.setFont("Helvetica", 8)
    c.drawCentredString(W/2, H-17.5*mm,
        "AAO BCSC 2025-26  |  SUN 2021  |  IMT = Immunomodulatory Therapy")

    M = 8*mm
    col_gap = 5*mm
    col3_w = (W - 2*M - 2*col_gap) / 3
    c1x = M
    c2x = M + col3_w + col_gap
    c3x = M + 2*(col3_w + col_gap)
    top_y = H - 23*mm

    # ── COLUMN 1: INVESTIGATIONS TABLE ────────────────────────────────────
    section_header(c, c1x, top_y-8*mm, col3_w, 8*mm,
                   "TARGETED INVESTIGATIONS", bg=C_TITLE_BG)

    inv_data = [
        ("ALL PATIENTS", "red",
         [("Syphilis (FTA-Abs/MHA-TP)", "ALL uveitis"),
          ("Reflex RPR/VDRL", "ALL uveitis"),
          ("IGRA (QuantiFERON-TB Gold)", "IMT planned / TB pattern")]),
        ("SEROLOGY", "blue",
         [("ACE + Lysozyme", "Sarcoidosis (61% sens combined)"),
          ("Toxoplasma IgG/IgM", "Toxoplasma chorioretinitis"),
          ("Toxocara ELISA", "Child; peripheral granuloma"),
          ("HIV serology", "Immunocompromised / atypical"),
          ("Bartonella IgG", "Neuroretinitis / cat exposure"),
          ("Fungal serology", "Candida/Aspergillus suspected")]),
        ("HLA TYPING", "purple",
         [("HLA-A29", "Birdshot (96% sens, 93% spec)"),
          ("HLA-B27", "Spondyloarthropathy / AAU"),
          ("HLA-B51", "Behcet (supportive only)"),
          ("HLA-DR4", "VKH (Japanese/Hispanic)")]),
        ("AUTOIMMUNE", "green",
         [("ANA", "SLE / JIA (low PPV 4.4%)"),
          ("Anti-dsDNA, anti-Sm", "SLE if clinically suspected"),
          ("Antiphospholipid Ab", "Thrombotic / vasculitic"),
          ("ANCA (c- and p-)", "GPA / microscopic polyangiitis")]),
        ("IMAGING", "navy",
         [("CXR", "Sarcoidosis (BHL) / TB"),
          ("CT Chest", "Sarcoid / TB (if CXR equivocal)"),
          ("Brain MRI", "Lymphoma / Susac / VKH / MS"),
          ("B-scan US", "Media opacity / T-sign (scleritis)")]),
        ("INTRAOCULAR", "dark_red",
         [("AQ/Vit PCR: HSV,VZV,CMV,Toxo", "Viral/parasitic PU; immunocomp"),
          ("Pan-bact 16S; Pan-fung 18S", "Endophthalmitis / bacterial"),
          ("Cytology + IL-10:IL-6 ratio", "Vitreoretinal lymphoma (>1)"),
          ("MYD88 mutation; IgH/TCR", "Vitreoretinal lymphoma"),
          ("Goldmann-Witmer Coeff >3", "Local ocular infection")]),
    ]

    col_colors = {
        "red":      (colors.HexColor("#FFEBEE"), C_INFECT),
        "blue":     (C_ENTITY, C_QUESTION),
        "purple":   (colors.HexColor("#EDE7F6"), C_MASQUERADE),
        "green":    (C_NONINF_BG, C_NONINFECT),
        "navy":     (colors.HexColor("#E8EAF6"), colors.HexColor("#1A237E")),
        "dark_red": (colors.HexColor("#FCE4EC"), colors.HexColor("#880E4F")),
    }

    row_y = top_y - 8*mm
    for (cat, ctype, rows) in inv_data:
        bg_c, hdr_c = col_colors[ctype]
        cat_h = (len(rows) + 1) * 4.5*mm + 2*mm
        row_y -= cat_h
        if row_y < 10*mm: break
        rounded_rect(c, c1x, row_y, col3_w, cat_h, r=2*mm,
                     fill_color=bg_c, stroke_color=hdr_c, stroke_width=1)
        c.setFont("Helvetica-Bold", 7)
        c.setFillColor(hdr_c)
        c.drawString(c1x+2*mm, row_y+cat_h-5*mm, cat)
        for rj, (test, indication) in enumerate(rows):
            c.setFont("Helvetica-Bold", 6.5)
            c.setFillColor(colors.HexColor("#212121"))
            c.drawString(c1x+2*mm, row_y+cat_h-10*mm - rj*4.5*mm, "• " + test)
            c.setFont("Helvetica", 6.2)
            c.setFillColor(colors.HexColor("#546E7A"))
            c.drawString(c1x+2*mm, row_y+cat_h-14*mm - rj*4.5*mm, "  → " + indication)

    # ── COLUMN 2: TREATMENT OVERVIEW ──────────────────────────────────────
    section_header(c, c2x, top_y-8*mm, col3_w, 8*mm,
                   "TREATMENT FRAMEWORK", bg=C_TITLE_BG)

    treat_blocks = [
        ("FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLES (AAO BCSC 2025-26)",
         colors.HexColor("#E8EAF6"), colors.HexColor("#1A237E"),
         ["1. Confirm ABSENCE OF INFECTION before immunosuppression",
          "2. Quiet inflammation with CORTICOSTEROIDS",
          "3. If worsening on steroids → RECONSIDER INFECTION",
          "4. Taper steroids to ≤7.5 mg/day prednisone",
          "5. Steroid-dependent → Add SYSTEMIC IMT",
          "6. Antimetabolites = first-line IMT",
          "7. Biologics (TNF inhibitors) for severe/refractory",
          "8. Maintain IMT ≥12 months quiescence before taper"]),
        ("LOCAL CORTICOSTEROIDS",
         colors.HexColor("#E3F2FD"), colors.HexColor("#1565C0"),
         ["Topical: anterior spillover only",
          "Sub-Tenon TA: posterior effect; peak 4wk; ~3mo duration",
          "Orbital floor injection: lower ptosis/perforation risk",
          "Intravitreal TA 4mg: CME; IOP↑ in >50%",
          "Dexamethasone implant (Ozurdex): biodegradable;",
          "  FDA-approved posterior NI uveitis; ~4-6 months",
          "FAi (Yutiq 0.18mg): 36 months; recurrence ↓97→28%",
          "Retisert (0.59mg): surgical; ~30 mo; universal PSC cataract",
          "Suprachoroidal TA (Xipere): FDA-approved 2021"]),
        ("SYSTEMIC IMT — ANTIMETABOLITES (1st line)",
         C_NONINF_BG, C_NONINFECT,
         ["Methotrexate 15-25mg/wk SC/oral + folic acid 1-2mg/d",
          "  Full effect 3-6 months; teratogenic; hepatotoxicity",
          "Mycophenolate Mofetil 1-1.5g BD",
          "  Onset ~4 months; GI side effects; equal to MTX (FAST)",
          "Azathioprine 2-2.5mg/kg/d; check TPMT first"]),
        ("SYSTEMIC IMT — T-CELL INHIBITORS (2nd line)",
         colors.HexColor("#F3E5F5"), C_MASQUERADE,
         ["Cyclosporine 2.5-5mg/kg/d: nephrotoxic, HBP",
          "Tacrolimus 0.1-0.15mg/kg/d: monitor trough levels"]),
        ("BIOLOGICS — TNF INHIBITORS",
         C_INF_BG, C_INFECT,
         ["ADALIMUMAB (Humira): ONLY FDA-approved biologic",
          "  for NI posterior segment uveitis",
          "  80mg SC day 1 → 40mg day 8 → 40mg every 2 weeks",
          "  VISUAL I/II/III trials evidence",
          "  FIRST-LINE for Behcet uveitis and JIA-uveitis",
          "INFLIXIMAB (Remicade): 5-10mg/kg IV",
          "  Effective in Behcet, sarcoid, refractory PU"]),
        ("ALKYLATING AGENTS (reserved for most severe)",
         colors.HexColor("#FCE4EC"), colors.HexColor("#880E4F"),
         ["Cyclophosphamide 2mg/kg/d; Chlorambucil 0.1-0.2mg/kg/d",
          "Use only when other IMT fails",
          "Effective: necrotizing scleritis, serpiginous, VKH, SO",
          "Risks: bladder cancer (cyclo); leukemia (chlorambucil)"]),
        ("PRE-IMT CHECKLIST",
         C_WARN, C_HIGHLIGHT,
         ["□ Syphilis serology",
          "□ IGRA/PPD + CXR (MANDATORY before biologics)",
          "□ Hepatitis B surface Ag",
          "□ CBC, LFTs, renal function",
          "□ Pregnancy test; contraception counselling",
          "□ Update vaccinations (live vaccines 4wk before)",
          "□ MTX/MMF: stop ≥3 months before conception"]),
    ]

    t_y = top_y - 8*mm
    for (tcat, tbg, thdr, tlines) in treat_blocks:
        th = (len(tlines) + 1) * 4.2*mm + 4*mm
        t_y -= th
        if t_y < 10*mm: break
        rounded_rect(c, c2x, t_y, col3_w, th, r=2*mm,
                     fill_color=tbg, stroke_color=thdr, stroke_width=1)
        c.setFont("Helvetica-Bold", 7)
        c.setFillColor(thdr)
        c.drawString(c2x+2*mm, t_y+th-5*mm, tcat)
        for lj, ln in enumerate(tlines):
            c.setFont("Helvetica", 6.5)
            c.setFillColor(colors.HexColor("#37474F"))
            c.drawString(c2x+2*mm, t_y+th-10*mm - lj*4.2*mm, ln)

    # ── COLUMN 3: EXAM PEARLS + MONITORING + SUN GRADES ──────────────────
    section_header(c, c3x, top_y-8*mm, col3_w, 8*mm,
                   "EXAM PEARLS, GRADING & MONITORING", bg=C_TITLE_BG)

    # SUN Grading boxes
    grade_y = top_y - 8*mm

    def grade_box(cx, gy, gw, gh, title, rows_data, bg, brd):
        rounded_rect(c, cx, gy-gh, gw, gh, r=2*mm,
                     fill_color=bg, stroke_color=brd, stroke_width=1.5)
        c.setFont("Helvetica-Bold", 7.5)
        c.setFillColor(brd)
        c.drawString(cx+2*mm, gy-gh+gh-5.5*mm, title)
        for rj, (g, txt) in enumerate(rows_data):
            c.setFont("Helvetica-Bold", 6.8)
            c.setFillColor(colors.HexColor("#37474F"))
            c.drawString(cx+2*mm, gy-gh+gh-10*mm - rj*4.8*mm, g)
            c.setFont("Helvetica", 6.5)
            c.drawString(cx+14*mm, gy-gh+gh-10*mm - rj*4.8*mm, txt)
        return gy - gh - 2*mm

    grade_y = grade_box(c3x, grade_y, col3_w, 38*mm,
        "SUN AC CELL GRADING (1×1mm high-intensity beam)",
        [("0:", "<1 cell"),
         ("0.5+:", "1-5 cells"),
         ("1+:", "6-15 cells"),
         ("2+:", "16-25 cells"),
         ("3+:", "26-50 cells"),
         ("4+:", ">50 cells"),
         ("Flare:", "0=none; 1+=faint; 2+=moderate; 3+=marked; 4+=intense/fibrin")],
        colors.HexColor("#E8EAF6"), colors.HexColor("#1A237E"))

    grade_y = grade_box(c3x, grade_y, col3_w, 34*mm,
        "SUN/NIH VITREOUS HAZE GRADING",
        [("0:", "Clear fundus view"),
         ("0.5+:", "Trace haze"),
         ("1+:", "Few opacities; mild disc/vessel blur"),
         ("2+:", "Disc + vessels blurred but visible"),
         ("3+:", "Optic nerve visible; borders blurred; no vessels"),
         ("4+:", "Dense opacity; optic nerve obscured")],
        C_ENTITY, C_QUESTION)

    grade_y = grade_box(c3x, grade_y, col3_w, 22*mm,
        "VITREORETINAL LYMPHOMA — RED FLAGS",
        [("Age:", ">50 years; dense vitreous cells"),
         ("VA:", "Better than expected despite cells"),
         ("CME:", "Usually absent"),
         ("Resp:", "Poor response to corticosteroids"),
         ("Dx:", "Vitrectomy; IL-10:IL-6 >1; MYD88; brain MRI")],
        C_MASK_BG, C_MASQUERADE)

    # Exam Pearls
    grade_y -= 2*mm
    pearls_h = grade_y - 10*mm
    if pearls_h > 0:
        rounded_rect(c, c3x, 10*mm, col3_w, pearls_h, r=3*mm,
                     fill_color=colors.HexColor("#FFFDE7"),
                     stroke_color=C_HIGHLIGHT, stroke_width=2)
        c.setFont("Helvetica-Bold", 7.5)
        c.setFillColor(C_HIGHLIGHT)
        c.drawString(c3x+3*mm, 10*mm+pearls_h-6*mm, "KEY EXAM PEARLS")
        pearls = [
            "1. Posterior uveitis = retinal/choroidal lesions; CME alone ≠ PU",
            "2. Always exclude syphilis — it mimics ANYTHING",
            "3. Before steroids in PU → rule out infection first",
            "4. Birdshot: VA can be 20/20 while VF/ERG worsen — monitor both!",
            "5. Serpiginous choroiditis → TB MUST be excluded first",
            "6. VKH: treat early + aggressively; sunset glow = chronic disease",
            "7. CMV retinitis: brush-fire border; full-thickness necrosis",
            "8. ARN: IV Acyclovir urgent; prophylactic laser → RD risk 75%",
            "9. Lymphoma masquerade: dense cells, no CME, >50 yrs, poor steroid Rx",
            "10. IGRA preferred over PPD in BCG-vaccinated patients",
            "11. Adalimumab = only FDA-approved biologic for NI posterior uveitis",
            "12. Goldmann-Witmer coefficient >3 = local ocular infection",
            "13. EDI-OCT choroidal thickness ↑ in active VKH (disease activity marker)",
            "14. IL-10:IL-6 ratio >1 in vitreous = vitreoretinal lymphoma",
            "15. ICGA superior to FA for choroidal lesions (sarcoid, birdshot, VKH)",
        ]
        for pi, pearl in enumerate(pearls):
            py = 10*mm + pearls_h - 12*mm - pi*4.3*mm
            if py < 12*mm: break
            c.setFont("Helvetica", 6.7)
            c.setFillColor(colors.HexColor("#37474F"))
            c.drawString(c3x+3*mm, py, pearl)

    # Footer
    c.setFont("Helvetica", 6.5)
    c.setFillColor(C_FOOTER)
    c.drawCentredString(W/2, 5*mm,
        "Page 4 of 4  |  Investigations & Treatment  |  "
        "AAO BCSC 2025-26, SUN 2021, Kanski 10th ed.  |  For PG Ophthalmology Education")


# ─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
if __name__ == "__main__":
    build_pdf()
    sz = os.path.getsize(OUTPUT_PATH)
    print(f"File size: {sz:,} bytes ({sz/1024:.1f} KB)")
Running Command

cd /home/daytona/workspace/posterior-uveitis-flowchart && python3 generate_flowc…

Your 4-page A3 landscape PDF is ready:

Posterior Uveitis Diagnostic Flowchart

PDF Document · PDF


What's inside (4 pages):

PageContent
Page 1Master Overview Flowchart - Starting from "patient with posterior uveitis" → 4 diagnostic steps → pattern recognition → branching into Infectious / Non-infectious / Masquerade with summary boxes and investigation overview for each branch
Page 2Infectious Posterior Uveitis Flowchart - Decision tree: immunocompromised? → focal lesion with old scar (Toxoplasma)? → peripheral necrotizing retinitis (ARN/BARN/PORN)? → TB/Syphilis/Bacterial/Fungal; with separate immunocompromised branch (CMV, PORN, atypical toxo, fungal)
Page 3Non-Infectious Posterior Uveitis - Two-column layout: White Dot Syndromes (Birdshot, APMPPE, Serpiginous, MFCPU/PIC/SFU, MEWDS, AZOOR) vs Systemic entities (VKH, Behcet, Sarcoidosis, Sympathetic ophthalmia, SLE/vasculitides) with dx and Rx for each
Page 4Investigations & Treatment Quick-Reference - Tabular investigation guide by category (serology, HLA, autoimmune, imaging, intraocular), treatment framework (principles, local steroids, systemic IMT, biologics, pre-IMT checklist), SUN grading tables (AC cells, vitreous haze), VRL red flags, and 15 key exam pearls
Based on AAO BCSC 2025-26 Section 9, SUN 2021 classification criteria, and Kanski's 10th ed.

Create a diagnostic flowchart for differentiating posterior uveitis entities

Generating Image

A detailed medical diagnostic flowchart for differentiating posterior uveitis entities, suitable for postgraduate ophthalmology education. Clean professional clinical diagram on white background. The flowchart starts at the top with "POSTERIOR UVEITIS" in a dark navy box, then flows downward through a series of diamond decision nodes and rectangular entity boxes. Structure: TOP: "POSTERIOR UVEITIS" start box (navy) FIRST BRANCH (diamond): "IMMUNOCOMPROMISED? (HIV CD4<50 / transplant)" - YES (right branch, red): - CMV Retinitis: brush-fire border, pizza-pie appearance, CD4<50 - PORN (VZV): rapid outer retinal necrosis, minimal vitritis - Atypical Toxoplasma: bilateral, multifocal, no scar - Candida endophthalmitis: IV drug use, indwelling lines - NO (down branch, continues): SECOND DIAMOND: "FOCAL lesion adjacent to OLD PIGMENTED SCAR?" - YES (left, red box): TOXOPLASMA CHORIORETINITIS — headlight in fog, most common worldwide, treat with Pyrimethamine+Sulfadiazine - NO (down): THIRD DIAMOND: "PERIPHERAL NECROTIZING RETINITIS + ARTERITIS?" - YES (left, red box): ARN/BARN (HSV/VZV) — peripheral necrosis, circumferential spread, occlusive arteritis. Rx: IV Acyclovir urgent - NO (down): FOURTH DIAMOND: "BILATERAL SEROUS RETINAL DETACHMENTS + CHOROIDAL THICKENING?" - YES (left, green box): VKH SYNDROME — prodrome: headache, tinnitus, meningismus; sunset glow fundus; HLA-DR4 - NO (down): FIFTH DIAMOND: "BILATERAL SYSTEMIC: oral ulcers, genital ulcers, skin lesions?" - YES (left, green box): BEHCET DISEASE — occlusive vasculitis, chalky retinitis+hemorrhage; HLA-B51; TNF inhibitors first-line - NO (down): SIXTH DIAMOND: "GRANULOMATOUS SIGNS + BILATERAL HILAR ADENOPATHY?" - YES (left, green box): SARCOIDOSIS — candlewax drippings, choroidal granulomas; ACE+lysozyme; CXR - NO (down): SEVENTH DIAMOND: "HLA-A29+, cream ovoid lesions, radial from disc?" - YES (left, blue box): BIRDSHOT CHORIORETINOPATHY — monitor ERG+VF not just VA; long-term IMT - NO (down): EIGHTH DIAMOND: "LARGE PLACOID GREY-WHITE LESIONS, young adult, viral prodrome?" - YES (right, blue box): APMPPE — self-limited choriocapillaritis; FA early blockage→late staining - NO (down): NINTH DIAMOND: "SERPENTINE PERIPAPILLARY PROGRESSIVE LESIONS?" - YES (right, blue box): SERPIGINOUS CHOROIDITIS — exclude TB first! triple IMT - NO (down): TENTH DIAMOND: "Young myopic woman, multifocal punched-out scars, no systemic?" - YES (right, blue box): MFCPU / PIC / MEWDS / AZOOR spectrum - NO (bottom): UNDIFFERENTIATED POSTERIOR UVEITIS — re-investigate, consider vitreoretinal lymphoma masquerade KEY RULE BOX at bottom: "ALWAYS test ALL patients for SYPHILIS (FTA-Abs + RPR/VDRL) — the great imitator. Screen for TB (IGRA) before any immunosuppression." Color coding: Red boxes=Infectious, Green boxes=Non-infectious systemic, Blue boxes=White dot syndromes/non-infectious isolated, Yellow diamonds=decision points, Orange=key rules. Clear arrows with YES/NO labels. Small legend in corner. Professional ophthalmology textbook style, clear readable fonts, clean lines.

Posterior Uveitis Diagnostic Flowchart
Here is the diagnostic flowchart for differentiating posterior uveitis entities. It follows a stepwise decision-tree logic from top to bottom:

How to use this flowchart:

Step through each decision diamond in order:
  1. Immunocompromised? → If YES: think CMV retinitis, PORN, atypical toxoplasma, Candida
  2. Focal lesion + old pigmented scar? → Toxoplasma reactivation (most common worldwide)
  3. Peripheral necrotizing retinitis + arteritis? → ARN/BARN (HSV/VZV) - urgent IV Acyclovir
  4. Bilateral serous RDs + choroidal thickening? → VKH syndrome
  5. Oral/genital ulcers + skin lesions? → Behcet disease - TNF inhibitors first-line
  6. Granulomatous signs + bilateral hilar adenopathy? → Sarcoidosis
  7. HLA-A29+, cream ovoid lesions, radial from disc? → Birdshot chorioretinopathy - monitor ERG + VF, not just VA
  8. Large placoid lesions, young adult, viral prodrome? → APMPPE (usually self-limited)
  9. Serpentine peripapillary progressive lesions? → Serpiginous choroiditis - exclude TB first!
  10. Young myopic woman, multifocal punched-out scars? → MFCPU / PIC / MEWDS / AZOOR spectrum
Bottom safety net: Dense vitreous cells in patient >50 years with poor steroid response → always consider vitreoretinal lymphoma masquerade
Golden rule (applies at every step): Test ALL patients for syphilis regardless of the suspected diagnosis.

If you'd like this exported as a downloadable PDF or want a zoomed-in version of any specific branch, just say the word.

give me detailed flowchart of posterior uveitis, few ideas such as with vitritis without vitritis , site of lesion, solitory or multifocal, infectious non infectious, bilateral unilateral

Generating Image

A comprehensive, highly detailed medical diagnostic flowchart for posterior uveitis differentiation. Professional ophthalmology textbook style, white background, clean typography, color-coded branches. This is a multi-branch algorithmic tree. TITLE BAR (dark navy, white text): "POSTERIOR UVEITIS — SYSTEMATIC DIAGNOSTIC APPROACH" Subtitle: "Based on AAO BCSC 2025-26 | SUN 2021 | Kanski 10th ed." ═══ LEVEL 1: START ═══ Center top: Rounded rectangle (dark navy): "POSTERIOR UVEITIS" Subtitle inside: "(inflammation primarily of retina and/or choroid)" Arrow down. ═══ LEVEL 2: VITRITIS? (FIRST MAJOR SPLIT) ═══ Yellow diamond: "VITRITIS PRESENT?" Two main branches split LEFT and RIGHT — this is the FIRST key branch. ──────────────────────────────────────── LEFT BRANCH (YES — WITH VITRITIS): Header box (teal): "WITH VITRITIS" Sub-diamond: "BILATERAL or UNILATERAL?" LEFT (BILATERAL with vitritis): Small box header: "BILATERAL + VITRITIS" Sub-diamond: "INFECTIOUS or NON-INFECTIOUS?" • INFECTIOUS (red): - TB (multifocal choroidal granulomas + periphlebitis) - Syphilis (any pattern — always exclude) - Brucellosis • NON-INFECTIOUS (green): Sub-diamond: "SOLITARY or MULTIFOCAL lesions?" MULTIFOCAL: - VKH Syndrome: bilateral serous RDs, sunset-glow fundus, prodrome - Sarcoidosis: candlewax drippings, string of pearls, BHL - Birdshot CRP: HLA-A29, cream ovoid lesions, radial from disc - MFCPU: multifocal punched-out scars, young myopic women - Sympathetic Ophthalmia: history of trauma/surgery - Behcet: occlusive vasculitis, chalky retinitis, oral ulcers SOLITARY/FOCAL: - Sarcoid (large choroidal granuloma) - TB (subretinal abscess) RIGHT (UNILATERAL with vitritis): Small box header: "UNILATERAL + VITRITIS" Sub-diamond: "SOLITARY or MULTIFOCAL?" SOLITARY (adjacent to old scar?): YES → TOXOPLASMA: headlight-in-fog, pyrimethamine+sulfadiazine NO → ARN (HSV/VZV): peripheral necrotizing + arteritis; URGENT IV Acyclovir Syphilis (exclude always) MULTIFOCAL: Sub-diamond: "IMMUNOCOMPROMISED?" YES (red boxes): - CMV Retinitis: brush-fire, pizza-pie (CD4<50) - PORN (VZV): rapid, outer retinal, minimal vitritis - Atypical Toxoplasma: bilateral multifocal, no old scar NO: - MFCPU: young myopic woman - Sarcoidosis - Endogenous endophthalmitis (Candida — IV drug use) ──────────────────────────────────────── RIGHT BRANCH (NO — WITHOUT VITRITIS): Header box (purple): "WITHOUT VITRITIS (quiet vitreous)" Sub-diamond: "BILATERAL or UNILATERAL?" LEFT (BILATERAL without vitritis): Sub-diamond: "LESION TYPE?" PLACOID (large flat lesions, grey-white): - APMPPE: bilateral placoid, young adult, viral prodrome, self-limited - Serpiginous Choroiditis: serpentine peripapillary, exclude TB first! - Ampiginous Choroiditis: multifocal placoid, relentless SMALL MULTIFOCAL: - Birdshot CRP: cream ovoid lesions, radial, HLA-A29 (minimal/no vitritis early) - Choroidal metastases: known primary carcinoma - Pneumocystis choroiditis: HIV, CD4<100 - TB miliary: multiple small yellow lesions SEROUS RD (subretinal fluid): - VKH: multiloculated SRF, fibrinous septa on OCT, choroidal thickening - Posterior scleritis: T-sign on B-scan, scleral thickening - Central serous chorioretinopathy (not uveitis — but DD) RETINAL VASCULITIS ONLY: - SLE: arteritis, cotton-wool spots, branch artery occlusions - Susac Syndrome: arteritis + SNHL + encephalopathy - GPA / PAN: systemic vasculitis - Eales disease: peripheral periphlebitis, young males RIGHT (UNILATERAL without vitritis): Sub-diamond: "SOLITARY or MULTIFOCAL?" SOLITARY: - OHS (Ocular Histoplasmosis): punched-out scars, peripapillary atrophy, no vitritis - PIC (Punctate Inner Choroiditis): small deep lesions, young myopic woman, no vitritis - Choroidal melanoma (masquerade) - Choroidal metastasis (masquerade) - MEWDS: perifoveal dots, self-limited, peau d'orange fovea MULTIFOCAL: - DUSN: motile subretinal nematode, unilateral neuroretinitis - AZOOR: zonal VF loss, photopsias, normal fundus early - Autoimmune retinopathy (paraneoplastic CAR/MAR) ═══ BOTTOM CRITICAL RULES BOX ═══ Wide orange/amber box spanning full width: "⚠ UNIVERSAL RULES: (1) Test ALL patients for SYPHILIS — FTA-Abs + RPR/VDRL — it mimics any pattern (2) Screen for TB (IGRA) before any immunosuppression (3) ALWAYS consider VITREORETINAL LYMPHOMA in >50 yrs with dense vitreous cells, absent CME, poor steroid response (4) Exclude infection BEFORE starting corticosteroids" ═══ LEGEND (bottom right corner) ═══ Color legend box: 🔴 Red = Infectious 🟢 Green = Non-infectious (systemic) 🔵 Blue = White dot syndromes 🟣 Purple = Masquerade syndromes 🟡 Yellow = Decision diamonds ⚫ Navy = Starting point / headers Style: Very detailed, clean medical flowchart. Professional font. All boxes clearly labeled. Decision diamonds clearly marked. Arrows with YES/NO/LEFT/RIGHT labels. Compact but readable. Clinical ophthalmology textbook quality. No clutter. White background. Well-spaced layout.

Posterior Uveitis Detailed Diagnostic Flowchart
Here is the detailed multi-parameter flowchart. Below is the full logical framework it follows, so you can use it in seminars:

THE FLOWCHART LOGIC — STEP BY STEP

FIRST SPLIT: Vitritis Present?

This is the most clinically useful first question because vitritis narrows the differential dramatically.

BRANCH A: WITH VITRITIS

WITH VITRITIS
    │
    ├── BILATERAL?
    │       ├── Infectious: TB, Syphilis, Brucellosis
    │       └── Non-infectious:
    │               ├── Multifocal → VKH, Sarcoidosis, Birdshot, MFCPU, Behcet, SO
    │               └── Focal → TB abscess, large sarcoid granuloma
    │
    └── UNILATERAL?
            ├── SOLITARY + adjacent old scar → TOXOPLASMA
            ├── SOLITARY + no scar + peripheral necrotizing → ARN (HSV/VZV)
            └── MULTIFOCAL
                    ├── Immunocompromised → CMV, PORN, atypical Toxo, Candida
                    └── Immunocompetent → MFCPU, Sarcoidosis, Endogenous endophthalmitis

BRANCH B: WITHOUT VITRITIS (Quiet Vitreous)

This cluster is very important - choroiditis without vitritis points to different diseases:
WITHOUT VITRITIS
    │
    ├── BILATERAL?
    │       ├── PLACOID lesions → APMPPE, Serpiginous (exclude TB!), Ampiginous
    │       ├── SMALL MULTIFOCAL → Birdshot (early), TB miliary, Choroidal mets, Pneumocystis
    │       ├── SEROUS RDs → VKH, Posterior scleritis
    │       └── VASCULITIS ONLY → SLE, Susac, GPA/PAN, Eales disease
    │
    └── UNILATERAL?
            ├── SOLITARY → OHS (punched-out, no vitritis), PIC, MEWDS, Choroidal melanoma/mets
            └── MULTIFOCAL → DUSN (motile worm), AZOOR (zonal VF loss), CAR/MAR (paraneoplastic)

Key Summary Table: Vitritis vs No Vitritis

FeatureWITH VitritisWITHOUT Vitritis
Unilateral + focal + old scarToxoplasmaOHS
Unilateral + peripheral necrotizingARNPORN (minimal vitritis)
Bilateral + placoidAPMPPE (mild vitritis possible)Serpiginous, APMPPE
Bilateral + serous RDsVKHVKH (early), Posterior scleritis
Bilateral + small multifocalSarcoid, MFCPU, BirdshotBirdshot, TB miliary, Mets
Bilateral + vasculitisBehcet, Sarcoid, TBSLE, Susac, GPA, Eales
ImmunocompromisedCMV, atypical Toxo, CandidaPORN
Dense cells, >50yr, no CMEVitreoretinal LYMPHOMA-

If you want this as a downloadable PDF or want separate zoomed panels for each branch, let me know.

add all white dot syndromes, and give all examples in above flowchart

Generating Image

Ultra-detailed comprehensive medical diagnostic flowchart for posterior uveitis. Professional ophthalmology PG seminar quality. White background, color-coded, clean medical typography, very detailed with all disease entities named. TITLE (dark navy full-width bar): "POSTERIOR UVEITIS — COMPREHENSIVE DIAGNOSTIC FLOWCHART" Subtitle: "AAO BCSC 2025-26 | SUN 2021 | All major entities included" START (navy oval): "POSTERIOR UVEITIS" Down arrow → LEVEL 1 DIAMOND (yellow): "VITRITIS PRESENT?" ════════════════════════════════════════════════════ COLUMN A — LEFT HALF: "YES — WITH VITRITIS" (teal header bar) ════════════════════════════════════════════════════ A-Diamond1 (yellow): "BILATERAL or UNILATERAL?" ── A-LEFT: BILATERAL WITH VITRITIS ── A-Diamond2 (yellow): "INFECTIOUS?" YES (red): Red box "INFECTIOUS BILATERAL": • TB: periphlebitis, multifocal choroidal granulomas, serpiginous-like • Syphilis: any pattern — ALWAYS exclude • Brucellosis: multifocal choroiditis + vitritis • Whipple disease: rare NO (green): A-Diamond3: "LESION TYPE?" MULTIFOCAL/DIFFUSE green box: • VKH Syndrome: bilateral serous RDs, sunset-glow, prodrome (HA+tinnitus), HLA-DR4 • Sarcoidosis: candlewax drippings, string of pearls, snowballs, BHL, ACE↑ • Birdshot CRP: HLA-A29, cream ovoid lesions nasal/radial from disc, diffuse vasculitis • MFCPU: multifocal choroiditis+panuveitis, young myopic women, punched-out scars • Behcet disease: occlusive vasculitis, chalky retinitis+hemorrhage, oral/genital ulcers • Sympathetic Ophthalmia: history penetrating trauma/surgery, Dalen-Fuchs nodules • Subretinal Fibrosis & Uveitis (SFU): progressive fibrosis ── A-RIGHT: UNILATERAL WITH VITRITIS ── A-Diamond4 (yellow): "SOLITARY or MULTIFOCAL?" SOLITARY: A-Diamond5: "Adjacent to OLD PIGMENTED SCAR?" YES → Red box: "TOXOPLASMA CHORIORETINITIS" • Headlight in fog • Focal vitritis overlying lesion • IgG serology + AQ/vitreous PCR • Rx: Pyrimethamine + Sulfadiazine + Folinic acid NO: Red box: "CONSIDER:" • ARN (HSV/VZV): peripheral necrotizing, arteritis, moderate-severe vitritis URGENT: IV Acyclovir 10mg/kg TID × 7d → Valacyclovir 1g TDS × 14wk • Syphilis: any pattern, FTA-Abs+RPR/VDRL • Bartonella: neuroretinitis + stellate macular star • Endogenous bacterial endophthalmitis MULTIFOCAL: A-Diamond6: "IMMUNOCOMPROMISED?" YES (red): • CMV Retinitis (CD4<50): brush-fire, pizza-pie, IV Ganciclovir + HAART • PORN (VZV, CD4<50): rapid outer retinal, minimal vitritis • Atypical Toxoplasma: bilateral, no old scar • Candida endophthalmitis: IV drug use, indwelling lines • Aspergillus: immunocompromised • Cryptococcus: HIV NO: • MFCPU: young myopic women, punched-out scars • Sarcoidosis: unilateral presentation • Endogenous fungal endophthalmitis ════════════════════════════════════════════════════ COLUMN B — RIGHT HALF: "NO — WITHOUT VITRITIS" (purple header bar) ════════════════════════════════════════════════════ B-Diamond1 (yellow): "BILATERAL or UNILATERAL?" ── B-LEFT: BILATERAL WITHOUT VITRITIS ── B-Diamond2: "LESION MORPHOLOGY?" PLACOID (large flat grey-white) → Blue box "WHITE DOT — PLACOID": • APMPPE: bilateral placoid, young adult, viral prodrome, self-limited, choriocapillaritis FA: early blockage → late staining. Usually no vitritis. Rx: observation ± steroids • Serpiginous Choroiditis: serpentine peripapillary, progressive atrophy, EXCLUDE TB FIRST FA: early hypoFl → late staining at active border. Triple IMT needed • Ampiginous (Relentless Placoid) Choroiditis: multifocal placoid, widespread, relentless • SFU (Subretinal Fibrosis & Uveitis): progressive subretinal fibrosis SMALL MULTIFOCAL LESIONS → Blue box "WHITE DOT — MULTIFOCAL SMALL": • Birdshot CRP: HLA-A29, cream ovoid 50-1500µm, radial nasal distribution FA: diffuse retinal vasculitis. ERG: rod+cone dysfunction. MONITOR ERG+VF not just VA • Multifocal Choroiditis (MFC): variable vitritis, punched-out scars • Punctate Inner Choroiditis (PIC): small deep lesions, young myopic women, NO vitritis OCT: focal RPE elevation; CNV common complication • MEWDS: perifoveal white dots 100-200µm, peau d'orange fovea, self-limited, wreathlike ERG: reversible ↓a-wave. FAF: hyperAF. Rx: observation • TB miliary: multiple small yellow-white deep lesions • Choroidal metastases: known primary carcinoma (breast, lung) • Pneumocystis choroiditis: HIV CD4<100, multiple yellow lesions SEROUS RETINAL DETACHMENT → Green box: • VKH: multiloculated SRF, fibrinous septa on OCT, massive choroidal thickening EDI-OCT • Posterior Scleritis: T-sign on B-scan, scleral thickening, pain • Sympathetic Ophthalmia: trauma history RETINAL VASCULITIS ONLY (no choroidal/retinal lesions) → Purple box: • SLE: arteritis, BRAA/CRAA occlusions, cotton-wool spots, ANA/anti-dsDNA • Susac Syndrome: arteritis + SNHL + encephalopathy, Gass plaques • GPA / PAN: systemic vasculitis, c-ANCA/p-ANCA • Eales disease: peripheral periphlebitis, young males, India • IRVAN: idiopathic retinal vasculitis + aneurysms + neuroretinitis • Frosted branch angiitis: severe diffuse vascular sheathing ── B-RIGHT: UNILATERAL WITHOUT VITRITIS ── B-Diamond3: "SOLITARY or MULTIFOCAL?" SOLITARY / FEW LESIONS → Blue/grey box: • OHS (Ocular Histoplasmosis): punched-out scars, peripapillary atrophy, NO vitritis Endemic Ohio-Mississippi valley. Dx: clinical. CNV common complication • PIC (Punctate Inner Choroiditis): small lesions, young myopic women • MEWDS: multiple dots, self-limited, unilateral • Choroidal Melanoma (MASQUERADE): pigmented elevated lesion, B-scan • Choroidal Metastasis (MASQUERADE): known primary, creamy lesion • Acute Idiopathic Maculopathy: turbid subretinal fluid, coxsackievirus, young adult MULTIFOCAL / DIFFUSE → Blue/grey box: • AZOOR (Acute Zonal Occult Outer Retinopathy): zonal VF loss, photopsias, normal fundus early ERG: markedly abnormal. FAF: zonal hypoAF. Rx: steroids/IMT variable • DUSN (Diffuse Unilateral Subacute Neuroretinitis): motile subretinal nematode, unilateral Disc edema → optic atrophy. Rx: laser to worm • Autoimmune Retinopathy (CAR/MAR): anti-recoverin Ab, paraneoplastic, cancer workup • Acute Retinal Pigment Epitheliitis: self-limited, perifoveal RPE dots • Acute Idiopathic Maculopathy: macular SRF, coxsackie exposure ════════════════════════════════════════════════════ BOTTOM FULL-WIDTH BOXES ════════════════════════════════════════════════════ MASQUERADE SYNDROMES box (dark purple, full width): "ALWAYS CONSIDER MASQUERADE if: age>50, dense vitreous cells, no CME, poor steroid response" • Vitreoretinal Lymphoma (PVRL): IL-10:IL-6>1; MYD88 mutation; Brain MRI • Uveal Lymphoma | Leukemia | Choroidal Metastases | Retinoblastoma (child) • CAR/MAR (paraneoplastic) | Retinitis Pigmentosa | Ocular Ischemic Syndrome GOLDEN RULES box (amber/orange, full width): "⚠ RULE 1: Test ALL patients for SYPHILIS (FTA-Abs + RPR/VDRL) — mimics any pattern ⚠ RULE 2: IGRA/PPD for TB screening before any IMT ⚠ RULE 3: Exclude INFECTION before steroids ⚠ RULE 4: Serpiginous pattern → MUST exclude TB-serpiginous choroiditis first" LEGEND (bottom right): Red=Infectious | Green=Non-infectious systemic | Blue=White dot syndromes | Purple=Masquerade | Yellow=Decision point Very compact but readable. All text must be clearly legible. Professional medical flowchart quality. Clean arrows.

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Detailed medical reference table/flowchart specifically for WHITE DOT SYNDROMES in posterior uveitis. Professional ophthalmology PG teaching chart. White background, color-coded rows, clean medical typography. TITLE (dark teal bar, white text): "WHITE DOT SYNDROMES — COMPLETE DIAGNOSTIC REFERENCE" Subtitle: "Non-infectious inflammatory chorioretinopathies | AAO BCSC 2025-26" OPENING BOX (light teal): "White Dot Syndromes = group of idiopathic inflammatory chorioretinopathies with multiple discrete yellow-white lesions at level of retina, RPE, choriocapillaris, or choroid" "Key features: usually NO systemic disease | Must exclude: Syphilis, TB, Sarcoidosis" Then a decision flowchart: DIAMOND 1: "VITRITIS PRESENT?" YES — WITH VITRITIS branch (left): DIAMOND: "BILATERAL or UNILATERAL?" BILATERAL: • BIRDSHOT CHORIORETINOPATHY - HLA-A29 (96% sensitive, 93% specific) - Female > Male | Age 30-70 | North European - Cream-colored ovoid lesions 50-1500µm, nasal/radial distribution from disc - Diffuse retinal vasculitis | Disc edema | Retinal phlebitis - Minimal/mild vitritis (often subtle) - FA: early hypofluorescence, late staining, venular leakage - ICGA: confluent hypocyanescent spots from disc - ERG: rod+cone dysfunction (MONITOR — VA may be 20/20!) - VF: Humphrey 24-2 — extensive loss despite preserved VA - Rx: Long-term IMT (MTX/MMF/AZA ± TNF inhibitor); bridge with steroids • MFCPU (Multifocal Choroiditis + Panuveitis) - Young myopic women (age 10-70, mean 30yr) - Multiple oval/round lesions >125µm, RPE/inner choroid, any zone - Punched-out scars with surrounding pigment - Active: AC cells + vitritis (100%), anterior uveitis 50% - OCT: RPE elevation, outer retinal disruption, subretinal hyperreflective material - FA: early blockage → late staining; CNV if present - Complication: CNV (common), macular SRF, subretinal fibrosis - Rx: Systemic IMT essential (83% reduction posterior pole complications) • SUBRETINAL FIBROSIS & UVEITIS (SFU) - Progressive subretinal fibrosis, severe prognosis - Histology: lymphocytic granulomatous infiltration + gliosis - Rx: Early aggressive IMT; rituximab (emerging evidence) UNILATERAL: • MFCPU (can present unilaterally) • PUNCTATE INNER CHOROIDITIS (PIC) — may have very mild vitritis NO — WITHOUT VITRITIS branch (right): DIAMOND: "LESION CHARACTERISTICS?" BILATERAL — PLACOID LESIONS: • APMPPE (Acute Posterior Multifocal Placoid Pigment Epitheliopathy) - Young adults (20-50), M=F | Bilateral, may be asymmetric - Viral prodrome common - Multiple flat grey-white placoid lesions, 1-2 DD, outer retina/RPE - SELF-LIMITED (usually): resolves in weeks - FA: early complete BLOCKAGE → late STAINING (pathognomonic for choriocapillaritis) - OCT: outer retinal hyperreflectivity + subretinal fluid in active lesion - FAF: hypoAF (active) → hypoAF (healed) - ICGA: hypocyanescent in all phases (choriocapillaritis) - ⚠ Beware cerebrovasculitis: headache, CSF abnormalities, stroke - Rx: Observation; systemic steroids if CNS involvement or severe • SERPIGINOUS CHOROIDITIS - Adults (20-60), M=F | Usually bilateral asymmetric - Serpentine/geographic peripapillary origin, progressive centrifugal spread - Grey-white or creamy-yellow RPE lesions → atrophy + scarring in its wake - Macular serpiginous: lesions arise primarily from macula (1/3 cases) - FA: early hypofluorescence → late staining/leakage at active border - OCT: outer retinal hyperreflectivity, choroidal thickening at active edge - FAF: hyperAF at active edge → hypoAF in scarred areas - CNV in 25% at border of old scar - ⚠ MUST EXCLUDE TB-serpiginous choroiditis (IGRA mandatory!) - Rx: Triple IMT: antimetabolite + T-cell inhibitor ± cyclophosphamide/chlorambucil • AMPIGINOUS CHOROIDITIS (Relentless Placoid Chorioretinitis) - Multifocal placoid lesions, widespread including periphery - Lesions separate and distinct (unlike serpiginous which spreads from one point) - Chronic relentless course, >50 multifocal lesions possible - Rx: Corticosteroids + IMT ± anti-VEGF for CNV BILATERAL — SMALL MULTIFOCAL: • MEWDS (Multiple Evanescent White Dot Syndrome) - Young females (mean age onset ~25yr) | Usually unilateral - Multiple discrete white-to-orange spots 100-200µm, deep retina/RPE - Perifoveal + peripapillary distribution; PEAU D'ORANGE fovea - Enlarged blind spot; photopsias; mild VF defects - FA: late-staining punctate hyperfluorescent "wreathlike" lesions - ICGA: hypocyanescent (more numerous than FA) - FAF: hyperAF lesions (visible even after clinical resolution!) - ERG: reversible ↓a-wave (outer retinal/RPE dysfunction) - SELF-LIMITED: resolves in weeks; vision recovers - Rx: Observation (usually); systemic steroids if slow resolution UNILATERAL — OUTER RETINAL ZONAL: • AZOOR (Acute Zonal Occult Outer Retinopathy) - Young-middle aged (mean 37yr), 76% female | Often unilateral initially - Prominent PHOTOPSIAS (described as pulsations, windmills, bubbles) - FUNDUS OFTEN NORMAL AT PRESENTATION (diagnosis frequently delayed!) - Later: white annular ring 3-5mm, then RPE granularity, vessel attenuation - ERG: markedly abnormal (outer retinal degeneration) - mfERG: localizes dysfunction zone - FAF: zonal hypoAF (atrophy) with hyperAF at active border - VF: temporal/superior defects corresponding to affected retina; enlarged blind spot - Rx: Systemic steroids/IMT; variable response; often progressive • ACUTE RETINAL PIGMENT EPITHELIITIS (ARPE) - Self-limited RPE condition - Perifoveal dark spots with surrounding halo on fundoscopy - OCT: small RPE disruption - Resolves spontaneously in weeks • ACUTE IDIOPATHIC MACULOPATHY (AIM) - Age 20-40yr; viral prodrome (coxsackievirus, hand-foot-mouth exposure) - Turbid yellow subretinal fluid in macula - OCT: subretinal fluid + hyperreflective debris in subretinal space - FA: early hypo/hyperFl → late RPE staining + pooling in SRD - Usually resolves spontaneously; variable prognosis BOTTOM SUMMARY TABLE (3 columns): Column 1 — "WITH VITRITIS": Birdshot, MFCPU, SFU Column 2 — "WITHOUT/MINIMAL VITRITIS": APMPPE, Serpiginous, Ampiginous, PIC, MEWDS, AZOOR, ARPE, AIM Column 3 — "KEY RULE": All WDS: exclude Syphilis + TB first. PIC: No vitritis hallmark. APMPPE: FA early blockage pathognomonic. Birdshot: Monitor ERG not just VA. BOTTOM WARNING (amber): "ALL White Dot Syndromes: Exclude SYPHILIS, TB, SARCOIDOSIS before diagnosis" Legend: Teal=with vitritis entities | Purple=without vitritis entities | Orange=key rules | Yellow=decision diamonds Professional, readable, compact. All text legible. Medical school quality reference chart.

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add all white dot syndromes, and give all examples in above flowchart

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Comprehensive posterior uveitis diagnostic flowchart. Medical education quality. White background, color-coded, professional clinical typography. TITLE BAR (dark navy): "POSTERIOR UVEITIS — SYSTEMATIC DIAGNOSTIC FLOWCHART" subtitle: "AAO BCSC 2025-26 | SUN 2021 — All Major Entities" START (navy rounded box, top center): "POSTERIOR UVEITIS" FIRST BRANCH DIAMOND (yellow): "VITRITIS PRESENT?" LEFT HALF (teal header): "WITH VITRITIS" RIGHT HALF (purple header): "WITHOUT VITRITIS" ═══ WITH VITRITIS BRANCH ═══ Diamond: "BILATERAL?" YES-BILATERAL WITH VITRITIS: Diamond: "INFECTIOUS?" YES → RED BOX "INFECTIOUS BILATERAL": TB · Syphilis (always exclude) · Brucellosis · Whipple disease NO → GREEN BOX split into two: MULTIFOCAL green box: VKH: serous RDs, sunset glow, prodrome, HLA-DR4 Sarcoidosis: candlewax drippings, string of pearls, snowballs Birdshot CRP: HLA-A29, cream ovoid lesions radial from disc MFCPU: multifocal punched-out scars, young myopic women Behcet: occlusive vasculitis, chalky retinitis, oral/genital ulcers Sympathetic Ophthalmia: trauma/surgery history, Dalen-Fuchs nodules SFU (Subretinal Fibrosis Uveitis): progressive fibrosis UNILATERAL WITH VITRITIS: Diamond: "SOLITARY or MULTIFOCAL?" SOLITARY + old scar → TOXOPLASMA: headlight-in-fog, Rx: Pyrimethamine+Sulfa SOLITARY + no scar: ARN (HSV/VZV): peripheral necrotizing, arteritis, URGENT IV Acyclovir Syphilis · Bartonella (neuroretinitis, stellate star) MULTIFOCAL: Diamond: "IMMUNOCOMPROMISED?" YES: CMV (brush-fire, CD4<50) · PORN (VZV, rapid) · Candida (IV drug use) · Aspergillus NO: MFCPU · Sarcoidosis · Endogenous endophthalmitis ═══ WITHOUT VITRITIS BRANCH ═══ Diamond: "BILATERAL?" YES-BILATERAL WITHOUT VITRITIS: Diamond: "LESION TYPE?" PLACOID (large flat grey-white) BLUE BOX: APMPPE: bilateral placoid, young adult, viral prodrome, self-limited FA: early blockage→late staining (choriocapillaritis) Serpiginous Choroiditis: serpentine peripapillary, progressive ⚠ EXCLUDE TB FIRST — triple IMT required Ampiginous (Relentless Placoid) Choroiditis: multifocal widespread SMALL MULTIFOCAL BLUE BOX: Birdshot CRP: HLA-A29, cream ovoid 50-1500µm, radial, diffuse vasculitis ERG+VF abnormal despite 20/20 VA — monitor ERG not just VA! PIC (Punctate Inner Choroiditis): small deep lesions, young myopic, NO vitritis MEWDS: perifoveal white dots, peau d'orange, self-limited, wreathlike FA TB miliary: multiple small yellow deep lesions Choroidal metastases: known primary (breast/lung) Pneumocystis choroiditis: HIV CD4<100 SEROUS RD GREEN BOX: VKH: multiloculated SRF, fibrinous septa OCT, massive choroidal thickening Posterior Scleritis: T-sign B-scan, scleral thickening, pain Sympathetic Ophthalmia: trauma history VASCULITIS ONLY PURPLE BOX: SLE: arteritis, BRAA/CRAA occlusions, ANA/dsDNA Susac Syndrome: arteritis + SNHL + encephalopathy GPA/PAN: c-ANCA/p-ANCA, systemic vasculitis Eales disease: peripheral periphlebitis, young males IRVAN: vasculitis + aneurysms + neuroretinitis Frosted branch angiitis: diffuse vascular sheathing UNILATERAL WITHOUT VITRITIS: Diamond: "SOLITARY or MULTIFOCAL?" SOLITARY GREY-BLUE BOX: OHS: punched-out scars, peripapillary atrophy, NO vitritis, endemic PIC: small deep lesions, myopic women MEWDS: perifoveal dots, self-limited Acute Idiopathic Maculopathy: turbid SRF, coxsackievirus MASQUERADE: Choroidal Melanoma · Choroidal Metastasis MULTIFOCAL GREY-BLUE BOX: AZOOR: zonal VF loss, photopsias, NORMAL fundus early, ERG markedly abnormal DUSN: motile subretinal nematode, unilateral, disc edema→optic atrophy CAR/MAR (autoimmune retinopathy): anti-recoverin, paraneoplastic ARPE (Acute RPE Epitheliitis): self-limited, perifoveal RPE dots BOTTOM — TWO FULL-WIDTH BOXES: MASQUERADE BOX (dark purple): "ALWAYS CONSIDER MASQUERADE: age>50, dense cells, no CME, poor steroid response" Vitreoretinal Lymphoma (IL-10:IL-6>1, MYD88, brain MRI) · Uveal Lymphoma · Leukemia Choroidal Metastases · Retinoblastoma (child) · CAR/MAR · Retinitis Pigmentosa GOLDEN RULES BOX (amber): "⚠ ALL PATIENTS: Syphilis testing (FTA-Abs + RPR/VDRL) | TB screening (IGRA) before IMT ⚠ Serpiginous pattern = EXCLUDE TB first | Exclude infection BEFORE steroids" LEGEND bottom-right: Red=Infectious | Green=Non-infectious systemic | Blue=White dot syndromes | Purple=Masquerade/vasculitis | Yellow=Decision | Amber=Rules

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Detailed medical reference chart for White Dot Syndromes in ophthalmology. Professional PG teaching quality. White background, color-coded rows, clean clinical typography. This is a structured comparison table and mini-flowchart combined. TITLE (dark teal bar, white text): "WHITE DOT SYNDROMES — COMPLETE CLASSIFICATION & FEATURES" Subtitle: "Non-infectious idiopathic chorioretinopathies | Exclude: Syphilis, TB, Sarcoidosis first" FIRST SECTION HEADER (teal): "GROUP 1 — WITH VITRITIS (outer retina + vitreous involved)" Three color-coded entity boxes side by side: BOX 1 (blue border): "BIRDSHOT CHORIORETINOPATHY" Demographics: Middle-aged, F>M, N.European Laterality: Bilateral, symmetric Lesions: Cream ovoid 50-1500µm, radial/nasal from disc Vitritis: Mild-moderate Key sign: HLA-A29 (96% sens) FA: Diffuse retinal vasculitis, disc leakage ICGA: Hypocyanescent spots radiate from disc ERG: Rod+cone dysfunction (monitor — VA may be 20/20!) VF: Extensive loss despite preserved VA Rx: Long-term IMT (MTX/MMF ± adalimumab) BOX 2 (teal border): "MFCPU (Multifocal Choroiditis+Panuveitis)" Demographics: Young myopic women, mean age 30yr Laterality: Bilateral (can be unilateral) Lesions: Multiple oval >125µm, any zone, punched-out scars Vitritis: YES (100%) + AC cells 50% Key: CNV common complication FA: Early blockage → late staining; hyperfluorescent if CNV OCT: RPE elevation, subretinal hyperreflective material Rx: Systemic IMT essential (83% reduced complications) Note: DD from PIC: MFCPU has vitritis; PIC has none BOX 3 (green border): "SFU (Subretinal Fibrosis & Uveitis Syndrome)" Demographics: Young women Laterality: Bilateral Lesions: Progressive creamy-white → subretinal fibrosis Vitritis: YES, panuveitis Prognosis: Worst among WDS Rx: Early aggressive IMT; emerging: rituximab SECOND SECTION HEADER (purple): "GROUP 2 — WITHOUT VITRITIS — PLACOID (large flat lesions)" BOX 4 (yellow border): "APMPPE" Age: 20-50yr, M=F | Bilateral Trigger: Viral prodrome common Lesions: Large flat grey-white placoid, 1-2DD, RPE/choriocapillaris Course: SELF-LIMITED (weeks) FA: Early complete BLOCKAGE → late STAINING (pathognomonic) ICGA: Hypocyanescent all phases OCT: Outer retinal hyperreflectivity + SRF (active) FAF: HypoAF active → hypoAF healed Complication: Cerebral vasculitis (rare) — check for headache! Rx: Observation; steroids if CNS involved BOX 5 (orange border): "SERPIGINOUS CHOROIDITIS" Age: 20-60yr, M>F | Bilateral asymmetric Origin: PERIPAPILLARY → spreads centrifugally (snake-like) Active: Grey-white RPE lesion at advancing edge Healed: Atrophy + hyperpigmentation in wake FA: Early hypoFl → late staining at active border OCT: Outer retinal hyperreflectivity at active edge FAF: HyperAF edge → hypoAF scar CNV: 25% (at scar border) WARNING: ⚠ EXCLUDE TB-SERPIGINOUS first (IGRA mandatory!) Rx: Triple IMT: antimetabolite + cyclosporine ± cyclophosphamide BOX 6 (red-orange border): "AMPIGINOUS / RELENTLESS PLACOID CHOROIDITIS" Age: Any adult | Bilateral Lesions: >50 multifocal placoid, widespread (inc periphery) Distinct from serpiginous: separate discrete lesions, not peripapillary spread Course: Chronic relentless (unlike self-limited APMPPE) Rx: Corticosteroids + IMT; anti-VEGF for CNV THIRD SECTION HEADER (blue): "GROUP 3 — WITHOUT VITRITIS — SMALL MULTIFOCAL / OUTER RETINAL" BOX 7 (sky border): "MEWDS (Multiple Evanescent White Dot Syndrome)" Demographics: Young females, mean age 25yr | Unilateral Lesions: Multiple white-orange dots 100-200µm, perifoveal/peripapillary Hallmark: PEAU D'ORANGE fovea Symptoms: Photopsias, enlarged blind spot, mild VF defect FA: Wreathlike late staining of dots ICGA: MORE lesions visible than FA (hypocyanescent) ERG: Reversible ↓a-wave (recovers with disease resolution) FAF: HyperAF lesions (persist even after clinical resolution) Course: SELF-LIMITED, resolves weeks-months Rx: Observation; usually full recovery BOX 8 (lavender border): "PIC (Punctate Inner Choroiditis)" Demographics: Young myopic women | Bilateral or unilateral Lesions: Small deep yellow-white 100-300µm, posterior pole HALLMARK: Absolutely NO vitritis, NO AC cells OCT: Focal RPE elevation + outer retinal disruption FA: Early hypofluorescence → late staining CNV: VERY COMMON complication (~40%) Rx: Anti-VEGF for CNV; IMT for recurrent disease BOX 9 (grey border): "AZOOR (Acute Zonal Occult Outer Retinopathy)" Demographics: Young-middle aged (mean 37yr), 76% female Laterality: Unilateral initially; may become bilateral Hallmark: FUNDUS OFTEN NORMAL AT PRESENTATION Symptoms: Photopsias (pulsations, bubbles, windmills) + zonal VF loss Later: Annular white ring → RPE granularity → vessel attenuation ERG: MARKEDLY ABNORMAL (outer retinal/photoreceptor degeneration) mfERG: Localizes dysfunction zone FAF: Zonal hypoAF (atrophy) + hyperAF at active border VF: Temporal/superior scotomas + enlarged blind spot Course: Progressive; often irreversible Rx: Steroids/IMT — variable, often disappointing response BOX 10 (pink border): "ARPE (Acute Retinal Pigment Epitheliitis)" Demographics: Young adults, self-limited Lesions: Perifoveal dark spots with light halo on fundoscopy OCT: Small focal RPE disruption Course: Self-limited; resolves weeks; VA recovers Rx: Observation BOX 11 (green border): "OHS (Ocular Histoplasmosis Syndrome)" Region: Ohio-Mississippi valley (endemic) Laterality: Bilateral findings, usually unilateral presentation Lesions: Punched-out chorioretinal scars + peripapillary atrophy HALLMARK: Absolutely NO vitritis (distinguishes from MFCPU) CNV: Common, macular complications Serology: Histoplasmin skin test (rarely needed clinically) Dx: Clinical + geography Rx: Anti-VEGF for CNV; IMT for recurrent inflammation (rare) BOTTOM COMPARISON TABLE (6 columns): "VITRITIS | BILATERAL | SELF-LIMITED | CNV RISK | KEY INVESTIGATION | HLA" Birdshot: Mild/Yes | Bilateral | No | Low | HLA-A29, ERG | HLA-A29 MFCPU: Yes | Bilateral | No | High | ERG, OCT | None specific SFU: Yes | Bilateral | No | Moderate | Clinical | None APMPPE: Minimal | Bilateral | YES | Rare | FA (early blockage) | None Serpiginous: None | Bilateral | No | 25% | IGRA (exclude TB!) | None Ampiginous: None | Bilateral | No | Moderate | FA, ICGA | None MEWDS: None | Unilateral | YES | None | FA wreathlike, FAF | None PIC: None | Bilateral | No | Very high | OCT, FA | None AZOOR: None | Unilateral | Usually not | None | ERG, FAF, mfERG | None ARPE: None | Unilateral | YES | None | OCT | None OHS: None | Bilateral scars | No | Yes | Clinical, geography | None BOTTOM WARNING (amber box): "All WDS: Exclude SYPHILIS (FTA-Abs+RPR) and TB (IGRA) before diagnosis. Serpiginous → TB MANDATORY." Professional ophthalmology reference chart. All text readable. Clean layout. Color-coded borders per group.

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