Uveitis: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments
- BY Ivan Yong
- IN Eye Health
Photo by Andrea Piacquadio
Uveitis is a serious eye condition characterized by inflammation of the uvea, the middle layer of the eye. This condition can affect people of all ages and, if left untreated, may lead to vision loss or even blindness.
Symptoms of Uveitis
- Eye redness
- Eye pain
- Blurred vision
- Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
- Floaters
- Decreased vision
Causes of Uveitis
Uveitis can be caused by various factors, including:
- Infections: such as herpes, toxoplasmosis, or tuberculosis
- Autoimmune disorders: like rheumatoid arthritis or sarcoidosis
- Trauma to the eye
- Inflammatory diseases: such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis
- Unknown causes: also called “idiopathic uveitis”
Photo by Antoni Shkraba
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of uveitis typically involves a comprehensive eye examination by an eye care professional, including pupil dilation and imaging tests. Uveitis can be classified based on which part of the uvea is affected.
- Anterior uveitis (iritis): Inflammation of the iris and/or ciliary body.
- Intermediate uveitis (pars planitis): Inflammation of the middle portion of the uvea.
- Posterior uveitis (choroiditis): Inflammation of the choroid.
- Panuveitis: Inflammation affecting all layers of the uvea.
Treatment
- Topical or systemic corticosteroids to reduce inflammation
- Immunosuppressive drugs to suppress the immune response
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Treatment of underlying infections or systemic diseases
Photo by RDNE Stock project
The prognosis for uveitis varies depending on its severity, the affected part of the eye, and the underlying cause. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are essential to prevent complications and preserve vision.
