Uveitis is an inflammation of the uvea, the middle layer of the eye comprising the iris, ciliary body, and choroid. The condition can affect one or more parts of the eye and, if not treated promptly, can have serious consequences for vision.
Causes of uveitis
Uveitis can have various causes, which are generally classified into three broad categories: infectious, non-infectious, and idiopathic (no known cause).
Infectious causes
- Bacteria: Tuberculosis, syphilis, leprosy.
- Viruses: Herpes simplex, herpes virus, cytomegalovirus.
- Fungi: Candida, histoplasmosis.
- Parasites: Toxoplasmosis.
Non-infectious causes
- Autoimmune diseases: Rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, ankylosing spondylitis, Behçet's disease.
- Inflammatory disorders: Sarcoidosis, Crohn's disease.
Idiopathic causes
- In many cases, the exact cause of uveitis remains unknown, even after a thorough investigation.
Symptoms of uveitis
Symptoms of uveitis can vary depending on the part of the eye affected and the severity of the inflammation. Common signs include:
- Eye pain: Sensation of pain or pressure in the eye.
- Eye redness: The eye may appear red and inflamed.
- Sensitivity to light: Photophobia or increased sensitivity to light.
- Blurred vision: Vision may become blurred or hazy.
- Floating spots: Appearance of black dots or floating spots in the field of vision.
- Diminished vision: Partial or total loss of vision in severe cases.
Treatment of uveitis
Treatment of uveitis depends on its underlying cause and the severity of symptoms. Standard treatment options include:
Anti-inflammatory drugs
- Corticosteroids: Often administered as eye drops, tablets or injections to reduce inflammation.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Used to relieve pain and inflammation.
Immunosuppressants
- Immunosuppressive drugs may be prescribed to reduce immune system activity for uveitis related to autoimmune disease.
Antimicrobials
- If infection causes uveitis, appropriate antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals, or antiparasitics will be administered.
Mydriatics
- These drugs dilate the pupil and can help relieve pain and prevent scarring by preventing the iris from sticking to the lens.
Follow-up and prevention
Regular follow-up with an optometrist is crucial to monitor the evolution of uveitis and adjust treatment if necessary. Prevention of uveitis depends mainly on proper management of underlying conditions such as infections and autoimmune diseases. Wearing protective eyewear in high-risk environments and vaccinating against certain infections can reduce uveitis risk.
Uveitis is a serious eye condition that requires immediate medical attention. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options is essential for effective management. If you develop symptoms of uveitis, consult your trusted optometrist promptly to avoid potential complications and preserve your vision.
