Uveitis is the inflammation of the inside the eye, specifically affecting one or more of the three parts of the eye that make up the uvea.
Includes:
Anterior uveitis
• Redness of the eye
• Blurred vision
• Photophobia or sensitivity to light
• Irregular pupil
• Eye pain
• Floaters, which are dark spots that float in the visual field
• Headaches
Intermediate uveitis
Most common:
• Floaters
• Blurred vision
Intermediate uveitis normally only affects one eye. Less common is the presence of pain and photophobia.
Posterior uveitis:
Inflammation in the back of the eye is commonly characterized by:
• Floaters
• Blurred vision
• Photopsia or seeing flashing lights
Includes:
• Dilated fundus examination to rule out posterior uveitis, which presents with white spots across the retina along with retinitis and vasculitis.
• Laboratory testing is usually used to diagnose specific underlying diseases, including rheumatologic tests (e.g. antinuclear antibody, rheumatoid factor, angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor) and serology for infectious diseases (Syphilis, Toxoplasmosis, Tuberculosis)
Uveitis is typically treated with
• Glucocorticoid steroids
• Topical eye drops (prednisolone acetate)
• Oral therapy.
Prior to the administration of corticosteroids, corneal ulcers must be ruled out.
