Uveitis Services

What are the causes of uveitis?

In most cases, the cause of uveitis is unknown (idiopathic); however, sometimes it may result from a fungal, parasitic, viral or bacterial infection. Other sources may be eye trauma or surgery.  Diseases such as lupus or arthritis may affect the uvea as well.

What kinds of uveitis exist?

The type of uveitis is determined by the area affected. Inflammation in the iris is called iritis.  Cyclitis results from swelling of the ciliary body, and choroiditis affects the back vascular layer of the eye.

Iritis develops quickly and may last 6-8 weeks.  Cyclitis can also occur quickly and may last for several months affecting the muscle that focuses the lens.  Choroiditis progresses more slowly, but can last the longest.

How is uveitis diagnosed?

To properly diagnose and treat uveitis, a thorough medical history should take place to try to determine a cause.  An eye doctor will then perform a normal examination using an ophthalmoscope on dilated eyes.  This testing should take place as soon as any symptoms occur.