Uveitis Treatment

Uveitis refers to a group of inflammatory diseases that affect the uvea, the middle layer of the eye. This inflammation can also impact other parts of the eye, including the retina and vitreous, leading to serious complications if left untreated. Uveitis can occur at any age and can be caused by infections, autoimmune disorders, or trauma. Our clinic specializes in diagnosing and treating uveitis using the latest medical advances to protect and preserve vision.

What is Uveitis?

The uvea is the middle layer of the eye, consisting of the iris, ciliary body, and choroid. Uveitis is characterized by inflammation of this layer, which can also spread to other parts of the eye. Uveitis can be acute or chronic and varies in severity. It may lead to complications such as cataracts, glaucoma, and permanent vision loss if not treated promptly. The exact cause of uveitis can be difficult to determine, but it is often linked to autoimmune diseases, infections, or injuries.

Types of Uveitis

There are several types of uveitis based on the part of the uvea that is inflamed:

• Anterior Uveitis (Iritis): Inflammation of the front part of the uvea, primarily affecting the iris. It is the most common form and can cause eye pain, redness, and sensitivity to light.
• Intermediate Uveitis: Inflammation occurs in the middle part of the eye, affecting the vitreous and surrounding areas. It is associated with conditions like sarcoidosis and multiple sclerosis.
• Posterior Uveitis: Affects the back part of the eye, involving the retina and choroid. This type is more severe and can lead to vision loss if untreated.
• Panuveitis: When all parts of the uvea are inflamed, leading to a combination of symptoms and a more complex treatment approach.

Symptoms of Uveitis

Uveitis can develop suddenly or gradually, and its symptoms vary depending on the type. Common signs include:

• Eye pain and redness: Often accompanied by sensitivity to light (photophobia).
• Blurry or reduced vision: Patients may experience a decrease in visual clarity.
• Floaters: Dark spots or shapes that float across the field of vision.
• Eye irritation or tearing: Increased tearing or discomfort in the affected eye. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is essential to seek immediate medical attention, as early treatment can prevent further damage to the eye.

Why Uveitis Treatment is Crucial

Without timely intervention, uveitis can lead to permanent vision loss or severe complications such as glaucoma, cataracts, and retinal damage. Treatment aims to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and prevent long-term vision impairment. Each patient’s treatment plan is tailored to their specific type of uveitis, underlying causes, and overall health.

Diagnosis and Evaluation of Uveitis

Accurate diagnosis is critical for successful treatment. Our clinic performs a thorough examination, including:

• Comprehensive Eye Exam: A detailed assessment of your eye health, including visual acuity, intraocular pressure, and examination of the front and back of the eye using slit-lamp and ophthalmoscopy.
• Blood Tests & Imaging: Depending on the suspected cause of uveitis, we may conduct blood tests or imaging studies such as an optical coherence tomography (OCT) or fluorescein angiography to examine the retina.
• Consultation with Specialists: In cases where uveitis is linked to systemic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, collaboration with rheumatologists or infectious disease specialists may be necessary for comprehensive care.

Uveitis Treatment Options

Treatment for uveitis depends on the underlying cause, the severity of inflammation, and the specific part of the eye affected. Common treatments include:

• Corticosteroids: The most common treatment for uveitis, corticosteroids reduce inflammation and are administered as eye drops, oral medication, or injections around the eye, depending on the location and severity of the inflammation.
• Immunosuppressive Drugs: For cases where corticosteroids are not effective, or when uveitis is caused by autoimmune diseases, immunosuppressive medications may be prescribed to control inflammation.
• Antibiotics/Antivirals: If an infection is the underlying cause of uveitis, appropriate antibiotics or antivirals will be prescribed to target the infection.
• Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove affected tissue or repair damage caused by uveitis. Procedures may include vitrectomy (removal of the vitreous gel) or cataract surgery if secondary complications develop.

Recovery and Long-Term Care

The recovery process from uveitis varies depending on the type and severity of the condition. In most cases, inflammation can be controlled with prompt treatment, but long-term management may be necessary for chronic forms.

• Regular Monitoring: Regular follow-up visits are crucial to monitor the condition and adjust treatment as needed.
• Lifestyle Adjustments: Patients may need to avoid certain triggers, such as smoking, which can worsen inflammation.
• Continued Medication: For chronic cases, long-term use of immunosuppressive medications or corticosteroids may be required to prevent flare-ups.

Frequently Asked Questions:

• What causes uveitis? Uveitis can be caused by infections, autoimmune diseases, trauma, or idiopathic (unknown) causes.
• How is uveitis diagnosed? Uveitis is diagnosed through a comprehensive eye exam, blood tests, and sometimes imaging studies like OCT or angiography.
• Is uveitis curable? While there is no outright cure for uveitis, it can be effectively managed with medication, and vision can be preserved with timely treatment.
• Can uveitis return after treatment? In some cases, uveitis can recur, particularly if it is related to an autoimmune condition. Long-term management and regular check-ups are important.