16 Nov Facts About Uveitis Nov 16, 2017 Causes Uveitis has many potential causes, including infection with a virus. Other potential causes include fungus, bacteria, parasite, inflammatory disease affecting other parts of the body, or injury to the eye. There are four types of uveitis: Iritisis the most common form of uveitis. It affects the iris and is often associated with autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis or sarcoidosis. Iritis may develop suddenly and may last weeks, even with treatment. Rare cases are chronic and require close, long- term monitoring. Cyclitis is an inflammation of the middle portion of the eye and may affect the muscle that focuses the lens. This also may develop suddenly and last several months. Retinitis affects the back of the eye. It may be rapidly progressive, making it difficult to treat. Retinitis may be caused by viruses such as shingles or herpes and bacterial infections such as syphilis or toxoplasmosis. Choroiditis is an inflammation of the layer beneath the retina. It may also be caused by an infection such as tuberculosis. Symptoms Redness of the eye Blurred vision Sensitivity to light (photophobia) Dark, floating spots along the visual field Eye pain Treatment The prognosis is generally good for those who receive prompt diagnosis and treatment, but serious complication (including cataracts, glaucoma, title="Band keratopathy" band keratopathy retinal edema and permanent vision loss) may result if left untreated. The type of uveitis, as well as its severity, duration, and responsiveness to treatment or any associated illnesses, all factor in to the outlook. [2] Uveitis is typically treated with glucocorticoid steroids, either as topical eye drops (prednisolone acetate) or oral therapy with prednisolone tablets. But before giving corticosteroids, rule out corneal ulcers by Florescence Dye test. In addition to corticosteroids, topical cycloplegics, atropine or title="Homatropine" homatropine may be used. In some cases an injection of PSTTA can also be given to reduce the swelling of the eye. Antimetabolite medications, such as methotrexate are often used for recalcitrant or more aggressive cases of uveitis. Experimental treatment with Infliximab infusions may prove helpful. Iritis is usually mild. Treatment may involve: Dark glasses Eye drops that dilate the pupil to relieve pain Steroid eye drops or ointment Pars planitis is often treated with steroid eye drops. Other medicines, including steroids taken by mouth, may be prescribed to help suppress the immune system. Choroiditis treatment depends on the underlying cause. Additional specialists in infectious disease or autoimmunity may be needed for such diseases as syphilis, tuberculosis, AIDS, sarcoidosis, or Behcet's syndrome. If the uveitis is caused by a body-wide infection, treatment may involve antibiotics and powerful anti-inflammatory medicines called corticosteroids. See autoimmune disorders for information on treating such diseases. Outlook (Prognosis) With proper treatment, most attacks of anterior uveitis go away in a few days to weeks. However, relapses are common. Inflammation related to posterior uveitis may last from months to years and may cause permanent vision damage, even with treatment. Possible Complications Cataracts Fluid within the retina Glaucoma Retinal detachment Vision loss When to Contact a Medical Professional Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you have symptoms of uveitis. Eye pain or reduced vision are urgent symptoms that require prompt medical attention. Prevention Treatment of an underlying disorder may help to prevent uveitis in persons with a body-wide (systemic) infection or disease. Squint treatment for children include muscle exercises, use of prisms in spectacles and surgery to correct squint. Amblyopia therapy may also be required in cases with lazy eye. Share This Information