Introduction: Ocular inflammation and uveitis is a common feature of rheumatic diseases and can cause visual morbidity. A common immunological mechanism can result in eye involvement and blindness can occur due to ophthalmic involvement if not treated promptly.

Materials and methods: This is a prospective study on 100 patients performed over two years. Patients with rheumatic disease were evaluated for ocular inflammation at the Ophthalmology clinic in Sri Ramachandra University, Chennai. Angiography, complete blood count, X–ray and serological markers of connective tissue disorders were done. Patients were treated with steroids and immunosuppressive agents.

Results: Among 100 patients with rheumatic disease, ocular inflammation occurred in 69% with p=0.02. The types of ocular involvement were Kerato Conjunctivitis Sicca (KCS) in 42%, uveitis in 19%, episcleritis in 23%, scleritis 9% in and retinal vasculitis in 5%. The most common disease with ocular association was rheumatoid arthritis. Visual loss occurred during the acute stage of uveitis or its complications and due to side effects of medications taken to treat systemic rheumatic disease.

Conclusion: The association between rheumatologic disorders and ocular inflammation requires ophthalmic evaluation to prevent complications and blindness.