TINU syndrome - literature review

Abstract

Introduction Tubulointerstitial nephritis with uveitis (TINU syndrome) is a rare condition which mainly affects young females. The pathomechanism of the TINU has not been still well understood but autoimmune background is suspected. Although it was first described in 1975, less than 600 cases have been reported so far. Aim of the study The aim of the study is to present the current knowledge about the TINU syndrome. Material and methods The article was created based on the PubMed database. Articles were searched in English using the following keywords: TINU syndrome, tubulointerstitial nephritis, uveitis. Results TINU syndrome occurs in 0.1-2% of patients with uveitis with no ethnic preferences. It has been linked to a number of potential causes including infectious, genetic, and jatrogenic factors. Clinical manifestation is often atypical what leads to underdiagnosis of disease. There are currently no established specific guidelines on the basis of which a diagnosis of TINU syndrome can be made. Therapy includes topical treatment and systemic corticosteroid therapy. The overall prognosis for patients is favorable, but it is possible to develop chronic kidney disease especially in adults. Summary: TINU syndrome remains a poorly understood disease and is often not taken into account in the diagnostic process. The lack of general treatment standards means that therapy is not always effective. Further research is needed to establish guidelines for the management of this disease.

Keywords

• TINU syndrome
• Tubulointerstitial nephritis
• Uveitis