Iritis/Uveitis

Anterior uveitis most commonly shows as a single red and painful eye that is very sensitive to light. You may notice a decrease in vision or the presence of floaters as well. With proper treatment, this typically resolves and leaves no lasting complications. Occasionally uveitis may become chronic or recurrent. In these cases, the eye may or may not be red and painful. If the inflammation recurs or becomes chronic there is often an underlying systemic condition that is causing the inflammation.

What causes uveitis?

Uveitis may be caused by a large number of conditions. In about half of the cases of typical uveitis, there is no cause found. If the disease becomes chronic or recurs then blood work is often needed to illicit a cause. There are a number of systemic diseases that can cause chronic or recurrent uveitis.
Iritis or uveitis occurs when there is inflammation inside the eye. This inflammation can be in the anterior, intermediate, or posterior part of the eye and can have many different causes. Most often the inflammation is seen in the anterior, or front, part of the eye. It is characterized by inflammation of the iris. Intermediate and posterior uveitis occurs in the deeper parts of the eye and can affect the vitreous, retina, and choroid.

Systemic disorders that can cause uveitis to include:

There are also a number of ocular disorders that can present with inflammation inside the eye. These are not primarily inflammatory but can cause an eye problem that looks like uveitis. Ocular disorders that can mimic uveitis include:

Most uveitis, regardless of the cause, is treated the same way. If there is an underlying systemic disease it may be necessary to treat or control that condition in order for complete resolution of the inflammation in the eye. Typically uveitis is treated with steroid eye drops, but occasionally systemic steroids or an injection of steroids around the eye may be necessary to control inflammation. In addition to the steroid, a drop to dilate and stabilize the pupil may be needed. With prompt diagnosis and proper treatment, many serious complications can be avoided and the outlook is very good. If left untreated or in the chronic stage of the disease, problems like glaucoma, cataracts, and scarring of the iris become more likely. If you have a history of uveitis or if you are having any of these symptoms, call and make an appointment for an eye exam today!