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Uveitis specifically refers to inflammation of the
middle layer of the eye, termed the "uvea" but in common usage
may refer to any inflammatory process involving the interior of
the eye.Uveitis is estimated to be responsible for
approximately 10% of the blindness in the United States. Uveitis
requires a thorough examination by an ophthalmologist.
Types
Uveitis is usually categorized anatomically into anterior,
intermediate, posterior and panuveitic
forms.
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Anywhere from two-thirds to 90% of
uveitis cases are anterior in location (anterior uveitis),
frequently termed iritis - or inflammation of the
iris and anterior chamber. This condition can occur as a
single episode and subside with proper treatment or may take
on a recurrent or chronic nature. Symptoms include red eye,
injected conjunctiva, pain and decreased vision. Signs
include dilated ciliary vessels, presence of cells and flare
in the anterior chamber, and keratic precipitates ("KP") on
the posterior surface of the cornea.
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Intermediate uveitis consists of vitritis
- inflammatory cells in the vitreous cavity, sometimes with
snowbanking, or deposition of inflammatory material on the
pars plana.
- Posterior uveitis is the inflammation of
the retina and choroid.
- Pan-uveitis is the inflammation of all the
layers of the uvea.
Depending on which part of the eye is inflammed in uveitis
different combinations of these symptoms may be present.
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Redness
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Light sensitivity
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Floaters
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Blurry vision
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Pain
These symptoms may come on suddenly, and you may not
experience any pain. The symptoms described above may not necessarily mean that
you have uveitis. However, if you experience one or more of these symptoms,
contact your eye doctor for a complete exam.
Treatment may include steroid eyedrops, injections, or pills,
as well as eyedrops to dilate the pupil and reduce pain. More severe cases of
uveitis may even require treatment with chemotherapeutic agents to suppress the
immune system.
Associated Retinal Consultants P.C. provides this on-line information
for educational and communication purposes only and it should not be construed
as personal medical advice. Information published on this website is not
intended to replace, supplant, or augment a consultation with an eye care
professional regarding the viewer/user's own medical care.
Associated Retinal Consultants P.C.
disclaims any and all liability for injury or other damages that could result
from use of the information obtained from this site. |
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