If you live with uveitis, you know how frustrating it can be to find what triggers flare-ups. This review looked at whether the balance of bacteria in your gut could play a role.
Researchers found an association between gut microbiota dysbiosis—an imbalance in gut bacteria—and the development of uveitis. The review suggests gut bacteria may influence the immune system in distant organs, like the eyes, through several possible ways: by affecting immune status via molecular mimicry, being modulated by microbial metabolites, disrupting intestinal immune balance, and compromising the gut's protective barrier.
The review did not report details on the specific studies included, such as the number of people involved, the settings, or direct comparisons between treatments. It also did not report any safety data or side effects. Importantly, the authors note this shows an association, not proof that gut bacteria cause uveitis. More research is needed to understand the connection and what it means for treatment.
