An inflammation of the uvea, which consists of the iris, ciliary body, and choroid. It can be classified anatomically into anterior uveitis (iritis), intermediate uveitis (pars planitis), posterior uveitis (choroiditis), and panuveitis (involving all parts of the uvea).
Symptoms
- Eye redness
- Eye pain or discomfort
- Blurred vision
- Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
- Floaters (spots or lines in the field of vision)
- Decreased vision
Causes and Risk Factors
- Infections
- Autoimmune disease conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and sarcoidosis can lead to uveitis.
- Eye injuries or surgeries can cause inflammation.
Diagnosis
- Comprehensive eye examination: Evaluation of visual acuity, intraocular pressure, pupil reactions, and examination of the anterior and posterior segments of the eye.
- Additional tests: Laboratory tests (e.g., blood tests for autoimmune markers), imaging studies (e.g., ultrasound, optical coherence tomography), and sometimes a biopsy of ocular tissues.
- Differentiating between types of uveitis based on anatomical location and associated symptoms.
Treatment:
- Eye drops or ointments to decrease inflammation in anterior uveitis.
- Oral or injectable medications for more severe cases or uveitis affecting multiple parts of the eye.
- Immunosuppressive agents
- Antibiotics for infectious uveitis, and management of underlying autoimmune or systemic diseases.
- Surgery may be necessary to manage complications such as cataracts, glaucoma, or retinal detachment.
Complications
- Vision loss
- Cataracts
- Glaucoma
- Retinal damage
Follow-up
Early diagnosis and proper treatment are important for preserving vision and preventing complications. Regular follow-up visits with an ophthalmologist to monitor for recurrence, assess treatment response, and manage any complications.
Prevention
Prevention strategies focus on managing underlying conditions, practicing good eye hygiene, and avoiding eye injuries. Patients with autoimmune diseases should adhere to their treatment plans to minimize the risk of uveitis flare-ups.
Uveitis, or inflammation of the eye’s middle layer, can leads to serious vision problems if not treated early. Prompt diagnosis by an eye doctor and proper treatment are key to preserving vision and preventing complications. More awareness, access to eye care, and ongoing research are needed to better manage this condition and improve outcomes for patient
