The uvea consists of three structures: the iris, the ciliary body, and the choroid. Depending upon which structures are inflamed, uveitis may be further subcategorized into one of three main diagnoses:
- Anterior uveitis (Iritis)
- Intermediate uveitis (Iridocyclitis)
- Posterior uveitis (Choroiditis)
- Eye trauma or surgery
- Uveitis may be in association with diseases which affect other organs in the body or isolated to the eye itself
Depending on which part of the eye is inflamed in uveitis different combinations of these symptoms may be present:
- Redness
- Light sensitivity
- Blurry vision
- Pain
Diagnosis
During a comprehensive eye exam careful attention will given during the slit lamp microscopic exam and the dilated retinal exam to check for the signs of uveitis.
Treatment
- Steroid eyedrops
- Steroid injections and / or pills
- Dilating drops to maintain a dilated pupil
- More severe cases of uveitis may even require treatment with chemotherapeutic agents to suppress the immune system.