Uveitis is an inflammation of the uvea, which consists of the iris, ciliary body and choroid. Together they form the middle layer of the eye between the retina and the sclera (the white of the eye).
The eye is shaped like a tennis ball, with three different layers of tissue around the vitreous body. The innermost layer is the retina, which absorbs light and helps send images to the brain. The most external part is the sclera. The middle layer between the sclera and retina is called the uvea.
The uvea contains many blood vessels – veins, arteries and capillaries, which bring blood to and from the eye. As the uvea feeds very important parts of the eye (such as the retina), its inflammation can damage eyesight.
There are a few types of uveitis, depending on the part of the eye they are formed in:
- Iritis, affecting the anterior part of the eye. Also called anterior uveitis – this is the most common type of uveitis. Iritis usually develops suddenly and can last between 6 to 8 weeks. Some types of anterior uveitis can be chronic or periodic.
- If the uvea is inflamed in the middle part of the eye, it is called pars planitis. Episodes of it can last from a couple of weeks to years. The disease goes through cycles which vary from good to bad and back again.
- Posterior uveitis affects the back parts of the eye. It develops slowly and often lasts multiple years.
- Panuveitis is noted when all layers of the uvea are inflamed.
Uveitis can be connected to:
- A virus, such as herpes, parotitis or herpes simplex
- Systemic inflammatory diseases
- A result of damage to the eye
- Yeast infections
If you smoke – stop. Research shows that smoking contributes to the possibility of developing uveitis.
Uveitis can develop suddenly to red eyes and pain, or blurred vision. In addition to red eyes and pain, other symptoms can include light sensitivity, blurred vision and unclear spots. A white mass, called hypopyon, can show up, clouding the lower part of the iris.
Uveitis is a serious eye disease, which can damage the eyes. It should be treated as soon as possible. Eye drops, especially those containing corticosteroids can decrease inflammation and pain. For a more serious inflammation, perioral medications or injections might be necessary.
If not treated, uveitis can cause:
- Glaucoma (increased eye pressure)
- Cataracts (clouding of the natural lens of the eye)
- Neovascularization (a development of new, atypical blood vessels in the eye)
- Damage to the retina, including rupture of the retina, damage to the optic nerve or both.
Those complications may need to be treated with eye drops, conventional or laser surgery.