Established as the third leading cause of blindness in developed countries, uveitis is the inflammation of the uvea, the pigmented layer between the inner retina and the outer fibrous layer. The uvea consists of the iris, ciliary body, choroid and blood vessels that nourish the eye. Any damage to the vital eye tissue, can then lead to permanent vision loss.
Uveitis may be classified based on the anatomic location: anterior (near the front), intermediate (middle of the eye) and posterior (toward the back of the eye).
The symptoms of uveitis develop gradually and have the potential to last for many years. The individual may see floaters suddenly and experience painful or painless red eye, sensitivity to bright light and blurred vision. To prevent lasting problems, uveitis needs to be treated right away.
To diagnose uveitis, the ophthalmologist will examine you by first conducting a physical exam of the eye, followed by imaging tests, eye fluids test, and skin or blood tests.
In the beginning of the treatment, eye drop medication or injections are prescribed to reduce inflammation. To reduce pain and swelling, another eye drop is used, which dilates the pupil.