7. UVEITIS
Uveitis is inflammation of the uvea, the middle layer
of the eye. The uvea consists of the iris, choroid and
ciliary body.
The most common type of uveitis is an inflammation
of the iris called iritis (anterior uveitis).
8. CAUSES AND RISK FACTORS
The specific cause of uveitis isn't clear. However, in some
people, uveitis is associated with:
Autoimmune disorders, such as Behcet's disease,
sarcoidosis or ankylosing spondylitis
Inflammatory disorders, such as Crohn's disease or
ulcerative colitis
Infections such as cat-scratch disease, herpes, syphilis,
toxoplasmosis, tuberculosis or West Nile virus
Eye injury
Certain cancers, such as lymphoma, that can directly or
indirectly affect the eye
9. SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
SIGNS SYMPTOMS
• Unilateral or
bilateral
• Pain
• Photophobia
• Tearing
• Normal to mildly
decreased vision
Signs
• Perilimbal flush
• Watery discharge
• Possible constricted
and sluggish pupil
• Variable intraocular
pressure
•
10. WORK UP
Complete ocular history and exam
Systemic history and exam for various associated
conditions
Slit lamp exam
Deposits on posterior surface of cornea (keratic
precipitates)
Inflammatory cells and protein (flare) in AC
Adhesions of iris to surface of lens (posterior
synechiae)
12. TREATMENT
1. Anti-inflammatory medication. E.g corticosteroids
2. Antibiotic or antiviral medication. If uveitis is caused by an
infection
3. Immunosuppressive or cell-destroying (cytotoxic) medication.
Immunosuppressive or cytotoxic agents may be necessary if your
uveitis doesn't respond well to corticosteroids or becomes severe
enough to threaten your vision.
4. Surgery. Vitrectomy-may be necessary both for diagnosis and
management of your uveitis..