24 March 2021 Author : Sìlvia Todo Bom What is uveitis? Uveitis is defined as inflammation of the middle pigmented layer of the eyeball, the uvea, which includes: The iris; The ciliary body; The choroid. Due to the continuity of the uvea in other ocular structures, uveitis can extend to the retina, the sclera, the cornea, the vitreous and the optic nerve. Uveitis can occur at any age, but it is more common in adults. Symptoms and diagnosis Symptoms of uveitis depend on the area of the uvea affected and may include: Intense ocular pain; Red eye; Photophobia (eye intolerance to light); In the most severe cases, a marked vision decrease and the perception of multiple “black dots” in the vision field, sometimes without pain. In view of these symptoms, it is very important to have an ophthalmology consultation . However, having these symptoms does not necessarily mean that it is a uveitis, as they are common to other eye diseases. Uveitis can be the result of an eye infection. However, uveitis is often associated with other systemic diseases. Therefore, a careful clinical evaluation is necessary to determine its cause and choose the most appropriate treatment . Diagnosis is based in the anatomical location of inflammation in the eye structures, clinical history, and physical and ophthalmological examination, and in the results of additional medical test that need to be carried out. The age group is also a valuable aid in determining the diagnosis. In pediatric age, it is usually the presence of a systemic disease that indicates the need to analyze the possibility of uveitis being present, since in children and young people this eye disease is generally silent. Treatment of uveitis The treatment of uveitis is varies , being related to its cause. Its duration is also variable and dependent on the cause , it can range from 2 to 3 weeks to, sometimes, a few tens of years of controlled follow-up. Regardless of the age of the patients, when uveitis is not treated, it can lead to cataracts, glaucoma and structural disorganization of the eyeball, with loss of vision. Uveitis is a diagnostic challenge for the ophthalmologist and a test of perseverance for patients. However, only then will be possible to control this disease. Meet the ophthalmology team from Hospital da Luz network. The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
