User:Mr. Ibrahem/Uveitis

Uveitis is inflammation inside the eye. Onset is usually sudden. Early symptoms include blurry vision, floaters, eye pain, red eye, and sensitivity to light. One or both eyes may be affected. Complications may include loss of vision and glaucoma.

Causes may be unknown, eye infection, or autoimmune conditions. Risk factors include cigarette smoking. The uvea is the iris, ciliary body, and choroid. It is divided into anterior, intermediate, and posterior uveitis; though in panuveitis all parts may be affected. Diagnosis is based on symptoms and a dilated eye exam.

Treatment is usually with steroids, most commonly as eye drops such as prednisolone. In severe cases steroids by mouth or by injection may be used. If steroids are not effective other immunosuppressants such as methotrexate may be used. Cycloplegics, such as atropine, may be used to help with pain and prevent complications. In cases due to infection, specific treatment for the infection is also required.

Uveitis affects about 1 in 3,000 people per year. It most commonly occurs in those between the ages of 20–60; though any age may be affected. Males and females are affected at similar rates. It accounts for about 5-10% of vision problems globally and is the cause of up to 25% of blindness in the developing world. With appropriate treatment outcomes are usually good.