uveitisiritis

Uveitis is inflammation of the uveal tract, comprising the iris, ciliary body, and choroid. When inflammation primarily involves the iris, it is termed iritis or anterior uveitis. The compound term uveitisiritis is not standard in clinical use but may appear in non‑technical writing to describe iris-centered inflammation within the uveitis spectrum.

Causes are diverse and can be infectious, noninfectious, or masquerade syndromes. Anterior uveitis is the most common form and is often idiopathic. Noninfectious associations include autoimmune diseases such as HLA‑B27–related conditions, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, sarcoidosis, and inflammatory bowel disease. Infectious etiologies include herpes simplex and zoster, syphilis, tuberculosis, and toxoplasmosis. Trauma and intraocular surgery can also trigger uveitis.

Patients typically report eye redness, pain, photophobia, tearing, and blurred vision. In anterior uveitis there may be a ciliary flush and visible inflammatory cells in the anterior chamber (cell and flare). Posterior involvement can cause floaters and decreased vision from macular edema or choroidal inflammation.

Diagnosis relies on ophthalmic examination with slit-lamp to detect cells and flare in the anterior chamber, along with intraocular pressure measurement and dilated fundus examination. Laboratory testing is guided by suspected associations and may include inflammatory markers, serologic tests for infections, and imaging or chest studies when systemic disease is suspected.

Treatment aims to reduce inflammation while protecting vision. Anterior uveitis commonly responds to topical corticosteroids and cycloplegic drops. More extensive disease may require periocular or intraocular steroids, systemic therapy, or treatment of an underlying infection or systemic autoimmune condition. With prompt therapy, many episodes improve, but recurrence is common and complications such as cataract, glaucoma, or macular edema can occur if not well controlled.