Uveit

Uveitis is a relatively rare condition in which the middle layer of the eye (the uvea, or blood vessels) is affected by inflammation, causing redness, eye pain, changes in vision and swelling.

The uvea is the middle layer of the eye, made up of three parts (iris, ciliary body, choroid) and located in the front, inner part of the eye. The types of uveitis vary depending on the part of the uvea affected and how long the damage lasts. The types of uveitis affecting a particular part of the eye are:

• Anterior uveitis (also known as iritis) is the most common type, affecting the front of the eye;
• Intermediate uveitis – affects the middle part of the eye;
• Posterior uveitis – affects the back of the eye;
• Panuveitis – affects both the front and back of the eye;

The types of uveitis, based on duration, are:

• Acute uveitis – develops quickly and normally, improving within three months;
• Recurrent uveitis – when inflammation recurs again after several months;
• Chronic uveitis – this type occurs when the inflammation persists for a longer period of time and recurs again about three months after treatment is stopped.

Uveitis can affect one or both eyes, with symptoms appearing suddenly or developing gradually. If any of these symptoms occur, or if you are ever in doubt about the condition of your eyes, you should see an eye specialist. Symptoms of uveitis:

• Red eyes;
• Eye pain (a dull pain around the eye, which worsens as you focus your gaze);
• Light sensitivity (photophobia);
• Blurred or hazy vision;
• Appearance of small particles in the field of vision (haze).

Uveitis is associated with problems with the body’s immune system. Certain autoimmune diseases can cause uveitis by mistakenly attacking healthy tissue in the eye. Such diseases may include lupus, rheumatoid arthritis or sarcoidosis.

Sometimes uveitis can be caused by injury or trauma to the eye, as well as by certain infections. In some cases, the cause is unknown.

Uveitis is usually treated by an eye specialist, who can best choose the right treatment plan. Most cases of uveitis are treated with a course of steroid eye drops over several weeks to help reduce inflammation.

Some symptoms may be associated with other common eye disorders. However, if you experience persistent eye pain or unusual visual changes, you should contact an eye specialist as soon as possible. Your eye specialist will be able to refer you to an eye specialist who will carry out a more detailed examination of your eyes.