To determine the hereditary and clinical patterns, nine patients from three families with different systemic and ocular rheumatoid diseases were examined ophthalmologically and medically. Three types of HLA-B27 associated anterior uveitis were seen. While HLA-B27 linked genes predispose the carrier to acute anterior uveitis (AAU) frequently recurring or chronic anterior uveitis may develop if an immune-complex disease such as Rheumatoid arthritis coexists. Hereditary factors may dispose patients to rheumatoid episcleritis, scleritis and keratitis.