Consultation
Uveitis
Eye Conditions
Cataract
CSCR
Diabetic Retinopathy
Epiretinal Membrane
Flashes and Floaters
Glaucoma
Macular Degeneration
Macular Hole
Retinal Detachment
Retinal Vein Occlusion
Uveitis
Vitreomacular Traction
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Investigations
Procedures
Uveitis refers to inflammation of the middle layer of the eye (uvea). It includes the iris, ciliary body and choroid. Uvea is full of blood vessels, predisposing it to inflammation.
Anterior uveitis causes blurring of vision, painful red eye, sensitivity to light (photophobia) and tearing. Intermediate and posterior uveitis cause blurring of vision, increase in floaters and occasionally flashes of light. If the inflammation extends to the ciliary body and iris, symptoms of anterior uveitis also develop.
Anterior uveitis is most common and affects the iris and ciliary body. Posterior uveitis involves the choroid. Intermediate uveitis affects the pars plana, which lies between the ciliary body and choroid. The boundaries of inflammation can overlap.
Anterior uveitis leads to dilation of blood vessels around the cornea, precipitation of inflammatory debris in the anterior chamber and adhesion of the iris to the lens, causing distortion of the pupil. Prolonged inflammation can result in vision loss through cataract and glaucoma.
Posterior uveitis can cause inflammatory lesions in the choroid and retina, as well as inflammation of the retinal blood vessels and optic nerve. Intermediate uveitis typically causes inflammation of the vitreous and precipitation of debris in the pars plana. Vision loss occurs through macular swelling, clouding of the vitreous or damages to the macula by the inflammatory lesions.
Management of Uveitis
Intermediate uveitis, posterior uveitis and recurrent or chronic anterior uveitis require investigations for possible underlying problems. These include infection (e.g., tuberculosis, syphilis), autoimmune disorders (e.g., sarcoidosis, lupus, HLA-B27 typing) and rarely cancers. Blood tests, X-ray and sometimes MRI scans may be organised.
Anterior uveitis is effectively treated with corticosteroid eye drops, often with cycloplegics. Posterior uveitis usually requires ocular corticosteroid injections or systemic anti-inflammatory medications. Complications of uveitis, such as cataract and glaucoma may require treatment. Any underlying disorder contributing to the uveitis will require appropriate management.