OPHTHALMIC CONDITIONS
Uveitis
Intraocular inflammation
What is the choroid?
The choroid is the middle layer of tissue in the eye wall. It is located between the retina and the sclera. It is in fact a fibrous layer (includes arteries, veins, blood vessels, and capillaries), responsible for protecting and nourishing the eye through the flow of blood to the deeper layers. The choroid is composed of 3 parts: a. the iris, b. the ciliary body, c. the choroid layer.
What exactly is uveitis?
Uveitis is a type of inflammation of the choroid (intraocular inflammation). Such inflammations can cause multiple vision problems. Uveitis can appear abruptly with eye pain, redness, or sudden blurred vision. Uveitis is a complex condition that often requires the collaboration of several medical specialties, such as ophthalmologist, internist, and rheumatologist, as it involves infectious and complex immunological causes.
What are the main types of uveitis?
The types of uveitis depend on the location of the inflammation. Specifically, they are classified as:
Anterior uveitis (iritis): Inflammation of the anterior part of the eye (iris) – the most common type
Intermediate uveitis (cyclitis): Inflammation of the ciliary body.
Posterior uveitis (choroiditis or chorioretinitis): Inflammation of the posterior part of the eye.
What are the causes of uveitis?
Uveitis can occur or be associated with:
Systemic inflammation
Autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis
Viral infections
Bacteria
Fungi
Parasites
What are the main symptoms of uveitis?
Symptoms of uveitis usually appear suddenly, without warning and can worsen quickly. The condition manifests with:
Redness of the eyes
Severe eye pain
Blurry, hazy, and diminished vision
Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
Floaters (visual disturbances)
What does the diagnostic process for uveitis involve?
Diagnosis of uveitis includes the following:
Comprehensive eye examination, using fundoscopy technique
Measurement of visual acuity (VA)
Fluorescein angiography (FFA) or indocyanine green angiography (ICG) with intravenous dye injection to obtain images of the retinal and choroidal structures
Blood tests
X – ray examinations
How can uveitis be treated?
After diagnosis, treatment should begin promptly to limit inflammation and prevent further tissue damage. The therapeutic approach depends on the type of uveitis.
Treatment of uveitis initially includes eye drops to combat inflammation. Cortisone is typically administered in combination with mydriatic drops to relieve pain. In severe cases, periocular or intravitreal cortisone injections are used. Oral immunosuppressive medications are also an option. If uveitis is associated with an infection, it should be treated simultaneously with antibiotics – antiviral medications.
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