Description
The uvea is the portion of the eye that contains the iris, the ciliary body and the choroid. Uveitis or iritis is inflammation of this area. It is most commonly seen between the ages 20 to 50. It can be serious, causing permanent loss of vision. Uveitis may occur without any identified cause, but it is often caused by autoimmune diseases (rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis), inflammatory conditions (Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis), trauma, and infections (toxoplasmosis, syphilis, tuberculosis).
Symptoms
Redness of the eye, blurred vision, sensitivity to light, floating spots in the vision, eye pain, irregularly shaped pupil.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
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.
Specialists:
Ophthalmology
Workup:
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.
Specialists:
Ophthalmology
Treatment
The goal of therapy is to control the inflammation, reduce the symptoms and determine the cause of the disorder. Treatment includes: corticosteroid eye drops and pain medications.