Uveitis Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
Definition
Uveitis is inflammation of the uvea. The uvea itself is the layer of the eye that lies between the sclera and the retina. The uvea consists of the iris, ciliary body and choroid.
Most cases of uveal inflammation occur in the iris and ciliary body. This condition will cause sudden pain accompanied by reddening of the eyes. Impaired vision can also occur in inflammation that attacks the back of the ciliary body.
Complications that can occur include glaucoma (increased eye pressure). In addition, cataracts or neovascularization (new blood vessel formation) also need to be treated in the course of uveitis. If the complications are too severe, a surgical procedure is needed.
Uveitis Symptoms
Inflammation of the lining of the eye or uveitis can cause several symptoms, such as:
- Red eye
- Painful eyes
- Photophobia (sensitivity to light)
- Blurred and unclear vision
- There is a dark spot in the field of view
Uveitis can strike suddenly with symptoms of red eyes and pain. However, it can also occur slowly with slightly red and painful eyes, but gradually blurred vision.
Uveitis Reason
The causes of inflammation of the lining of the eye or uveitis include autoimmune disorders, infectious diseases in the body, inflammatory disorders, eye trauma, and some tumors. However, most uveitis has no known cause.
The most common type of uveitis is anterior uveitis, where inflammation occurs in the front of the eye. This type of uveitis is usually limited to affecting only the iris, hence the name iritis (inflammation of the iris). This inflammation can be caused by autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis (inflammation of the joints) or ankylosing spondylitis.
However, uveitis is actually more common in healthy people who don’t have these diseases. This disorder can affect only one eye and most often affects young people. A history of autoimmune disorders is a risk factor for anterior uveitis.
Posterior uveitis affects the back of the uvea, which is mostly composed of the choroid. That is why it is called choroiditis (inflammation of the choroid). Posterior uveitis is usually caused by an infectious disease in the body, such as syphilis or tuberculosis.
Diagnosis
Determination of the diagnosis can be done through an examination using a slit lamp, and direct and indirect ophthalmoscopy. If necessary, supporting examinations can also be carried out, such as:
- fluorescent angiography
- ultrasonography
- scan mata
- X-ray examination
- blood test
However, usually very in-depth laboratory tests are generally not needed to determine the diagnosis of uveitis.
Uveitis Treatment
Treatment should be started as soon as possible to minimize reduced vision. Uveitis is usually only mild inflammation. Because of this, treatment with eye drops, especially those containing corticosteroids and drugs for dilating (enlarging) pupils, is the main treatment. The goal is to reduce the inflammation and pain.
For more severe inflammation, drugs are needed that are taken orally or injected. The goals of treating inflammation of the lining of the eye or anterior uveitis include:
- Restores sharp vision
- Reducing pain in the eyes
- Eliminate inflammation or causes of inflammation
- Prevent iris synechiae, control intraocular pressure