UNICORNS: Uveitis in Childhood Prospective National Cohort Study

Childhood uveitis (inflammation inside the eye) is an uncommon disorder that carries the risk of blindness. Inadequate treatment of active inflammation has been shown to be related to a poor outcome. There has been no population-based, prospective longitudinal study of all-cause childhood uveitis, with resultant limitations in the evidence base used to counsel affected families, balance treatment decisions, or plan further research. The aim of the study is to describe the characteristics of childhood-onset uveitis and describe outcomes. The investigators shall also aim to identify the socio-demographic, clinical, biological and treatment-related determinants of outcome. Early (1-2 years following diagnosis) outcomes will be described in the first instance: However, through the creation of a national inception cohort, the investigators shall enable longer-term studies of outcome for affected children and families. There will be no change to routine clinical care.