Uveitis (Iritis, Eye Inflammation)
Description
The uvea is the portion of the eye that contains the iris, the ciliary body and the choroid. This area is also called the anterior chamber. Uveitis or iritis is inflammation of this area. The cause can be autoimmune diseases or trauma. It is most commonly seen in people ages 20 to 50. It can be serious, leading to permanent vision loss. The primary causes are: autoimmune diseases (Rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis), inflammatory conditions (Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis), trauma, infections (toxoplasmosis, syphilis, tuberculosis), and cancer (lymphoma).
Symptoms
Redness of the eye, blurred vision, sensitivity to light, floating spots in the vision, eye pain, irregularly shaped pupil.
Tests
A history and physical exam will be performed. The slit lamp exam is used to make the diagnosis. Depending on the suspected cause other tests may be done.
Treatment
The goal of therapy is to reduce the symptoms and determine the cause of the disorder. Treatment includes: steroid eye drops and pain medications.
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