The uvea is the pigmented, vascular layer of the eye and includes the iris, ciliary body and choroid. Uveitis is an inflammation affecting any part of the uvea. Inflammation of the iris is called "iritis" or "anterior uveitis". This is the most common form of uveitis, accounting for about 75% of cases.
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Uveitis can be acute, lasting days or weeks, or chronic, lasting for months or even years. Treatment is readily available and usually effective.
Some of the causes include:
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Viral, bacterial or fungal infections
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Autoimmune causes, where the body’s own immune system reacts against itself. There may be an associated systemic disease involving the skin, joints, lungs or bowel.
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Trauma
Symptoms:
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Red eye, especially around the edge of the iris (coloured part of the eye)
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Discomfort or pain in the eye
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Blurred vision
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Increased tear production
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Sensitivity to light
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Floaters in field of vision
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Smaller than normal pupil size
If you think you may have uveitis or iritis, please seek medical attention. Uveitis may seriously affect your vision and the long-term health of your eye.
