Iritis

Iritis, also known as anterior uveitis, is a form of eye inflammation that affects the iris and the middle layer of the eye. It is a type of uveitis, which is a broader term that refers to inflammation of the uvea, the pigmented layer of the eye.

Causes and Risk Factors

Iritis can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Infections, such as toxoplasmosis or histoplasmosis
• Autoimmune disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus
• Trauma to the eye
• Surgical complications
• Certain medications, such as sulfonamides or penicillin

Symptoms

The symptoms of iritis may include:

• Eye pain or discomfort
• Redness and inflammation of the eye
• Blurred vision
• Sensitivity to light
• Floaters or flashes of light in the visual field

Diagnosis

Iritis is typically diagnosed through a combination of:

• Visual acuity test
• Slit-lamp examination
• Ophthalmoscopy
• Fluorescein angiography
• Ultrasound biomicroscopy

Treatment

The treatment for iritis typically involves:

• Corticosteroid eye drops to reduce inflammation
• Atropine or other cycloplegic agents to dilate the pupil and relieve pain
• Antibiotics or antiviral medications if an underlying infection is present
• Immunosuppressive medications in cases of autoimmune disorders

Complications

If left untreated, iritis can lead to complications such as:

• Glaucoma
• Cataracts
• Retinal damage
• Vision loss or blindness

Prognosis

The prognosis for iritis is generally good if treated promptly and effectively. However, recurrent episodes of iritis can increase the risk of complications and vision loss.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is iritis?
Iritis is inflammation of the iris, the colored part of the eye.

What are the symptoms of iritis?
Symptoms may include eye pain, redness, sensitivity to light, and blurred vision.

What causes iritis?
Iritis can be caused by infection, injury, or autoimmune disorders, among other factors.

Is iritis contagious?
Typically, iritis is not contagious, but the underlying cause may be.

How is iritis diagnosed?
Diagnosis is usually made through a comprehensive eye exam and medical history.

What is the treatment for iritis?
Treatment often involves corticosteroid eye drops to reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms.

Can iritis lead to complications?
If left untreated, iritis may lead to complications such as glaucoma or vision loss.

How long does it usually take to recover from iritis?
Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the condition and effectiveness of treatment.

Can iritis be prevented?
Some cases of iritis may be preventable by treating underlying conditions or avoiding eye injuries.

Is iritis a chronic condition?
Iritis can be acute or chronic, with some people experiencing recurring episodes.