Uveitis often presents as a red eye

Uveitis is an inflammation of a part of the eye called the uvea. This is the eye's middle layer which includes the iris, ciliary body and choroid. The disease is classified into three types based on locations of the inflammation. Anterior uveitis, more commonly known as "iritis", refers to inflammation in the front part of the eye and it is the most common type. Intermediate uveitis is inflammation of the middle part of the eye. Posterior uveitis is inflammation of the back of the eye. Sometimes multiple parts of the eyes are involved in uveitis.

There are many identifiable causes of this disease, including viruses, fungus and bacteria infections, but in most cases, the cause is unknown. Other system disorders can be associated with uveitis and your doctor may order additional diagnostic blood test when you present with uveitis.

The signs and symptoms of uveitis include red eye, blurred vision, increase sensitivity to lights, floaters, eye pain, and sometimes high intraocular pressure. Uveitis is diagnosed with a thorough internal examination of the eye. The treatment for uveitis is determined by the severity and location of the disease. Steroid is usually the medication of choice and can be administer in eye drops, pills or injections. Other medications are often used in conjunction with steroids or as a substitute for steroid. Recent developments have focused on implanting small devices in the eye to allow for long term and slow release of new medications. Sometimes, medication is also required to lower the intraocular pressure. Cataracts, glaucoma and intraocular scarring may occur as a result of recurrent uveitis and chronic medication usage.