Uveitis is a complex and potentially serious eye condition that involves inflammation of the uvea, the middle layer of the eye. This condition can affect people of all ages and, if left untreated, may lead to vision impairment or even blindness. Uveitis is regularly misdiagnosed and without the proper treatment and care, can lead to permanent loss of vision or blindness. At the Retina Clinic London, Prof. Stanga and his team have all the tools in place to ensure that your Uveitis is correctly diagnosed and that a personalised treatment is created for you to ensure immediate control of your symptoms.
What is uveitis?
Uveitis refers to the inflammation of the uvea, which comprises the iris, ciliary body, and choroid. The uvea is crucial for nourishing the eye and maintaining its structural integrity. Inflammation disrupts these functions, potentially causing pain, redness, and vision problems. It’s important to note that there is a variety of uveitis types, categorized based on their location within the eye: anterior (front), intermediate (middle), posterior (back), and panuveitis (involving the entire uvea). In this section we described two very common forms of uveitis: Punctate Inner Chorioretinopathy (PIC) and Birdshot Chorioretinopathy.
What can cause uveitis?
Understanding the potential causes and risk factors is essential for early detection and management of uveitis. Causes may include infections, autoimmune disorders, and systemic diseases. Certain risk factors, such as age, genetics, and pre-existing health conditions, can increase the likelihood of developing uveitis.
What are the major symptoms of uveitis?
Recognizing the symptoms of uveitis is crucial for timely intervention. Common signs may include eye redness, pain, sensitivity to light, and blurred vision. A comprehensive eye examination by an ophthalmologist is essential for an accurate diagnosis. At The Retina Clinic London, we regularly request specific blood tests and other laboratory tests to confirm diagnoses and ensure the correct treatment is prescribed.
What treatment options are available for uveitis?
The management of uveitis often involves a multidisciplinary approach, with treatment tailored to the specific type and underlying cause. As mentioned, there are various types of uveitis and so your ophthalmologist will tailor your treatment plan to the diagnosis and symptoms at the time.
Treatment options include corticosteroids, immunosuppressive drugs, intravitreal injections of steroid, vitrectomy surgery; all of which may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and manage symptoms. Regular monitoring and follow-up appointments are crucial to assess progress and adjust treatment plans accordingly.