Uveitis is a severe eye disease marked by inflammation of the uvea (the middle layer of tissues in your eyes).
Eye pain, redness, and impaired vision are the common symptoms of Uveitis.
Uveitis is classified into four types based on the part of the eye it affects.
These include Anterior Uveitis, Intermediate Uveitis, Posterior Uveitis, and Panuveitis.
In this article, we will explain the different types of Uveitis, their symptoms, causes, and treatment methods.
Types of Uveitis
Usually, Uveitis affects the uvea of the eye, but it may also affect other parts of the uvea.
Uveitis can be classified into four types based on the eye region where inflammation occurs.
These include Anterior Uveitis, Intermediate Uveitis, Posterior Uveitis, and Panuveitis.
Let’s further dive into the details of these different types of Uveitis.
Anterior Uveitis
Iritis or Iridocyclitis, another name for Anterior Uveitis, is the most common type of Uveitis.
It affects the ciliary body, the iris, and the tissue that lies between the iris and the cornea in the front region of the uvea.
This type of Uveitis can cause red eyes, blurry vision, eye discomfort, and increased light sensitivity.
The following conditions may increase your risk of Anterior Uveitis:
- Arthritis, especially Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS)
- Autoimmune conditions, such as Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis and Sarcoidosis
- Conditions relating to the digestive system, such as Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
- Past incidences of chickenpox or herpes virus infections
Anterior Uveitis can be effectively treated with medications like Corticosteroid and mydriatic eye drops.
Intermediate Uveitis
Intermediate Uveitis or Cyclitis affects the vitreous, the fluid-filled area inside the middle of the eye.
It is more common in young adults.
In Intermediate Uveitis, it’s possible for symptoms to get better, disappear, then return and worsen.
Multiple Sclerosis and Sarcoidosis make you more prone to Intermediate Uveitis.
Spots in the vision, often known as floaters, and blurred vision are possible symptoms of Intermediate Uveitis.
Different types of Uveitis have different causes. Read our article: Exploring Uveitis Causes: From Infections to Autoimmune Factors, to know more.
Posterior Uveitis
Posterior Uveitis, also known as Chorioretinitis or Choroiditis, is the less prevalent but the most severe type of Uveitis.
It affects the interior portion of the eye. It may impact the choroid, retina, and optic nerve.
Posterior Uveitis can lead to recurring symptoms, such as floaters or flashing lights, that may last for months or even years.
It can be hard to treat and is more likely to result in serious complications like vision loss if left untreated.
The potential causes of Posterior Uveitis include:
- Viral diseases, including chicken pox or herpes viruses infections
- Tuberculosis
- Sarcoidosis
- Syphilis
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Panuveitis
Panuveitis is the rarest form of Uveitis that affects the front, center, and back of the eye.
This kind is more severe and increases the likelihood of permanent vision loss.
Panuveitis can lead to blurred vision, light sensitivity, and floaters.
The most common causes of Panuveitis include:
- Fungal or Bacterial Retinitis
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Lupus
- Sarcoidosis
- Silicosis
- Tuberculosis
Conclusion
Uveitis is a serious eye inflammation that affects the uvea of the eyes.
Depending upon the part it affects, Uveitis can be classified as Anterior Uveitis, Intermediate Uveitis, Posterior Uveitis, and Panuveitis.
All these four types of Uveitis have different causes and symptoms.
If it is left untreated, Uveitis can cause permanent vision loss.
The most common treatment for Uveitis includes corticosteroid medications that can be given in the form of pills, injections, and eye drops based on the severity of your condition.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the 4 types of Uveitis?
The four types of Uveitis include Anterior Uveitis, Intermediate Uveitis, Posterior Uveitis, and Panuveitis.
Is Scleritis a type of Uveitis?
Yes, Scleritis is a type of Uveitis.
Scleritis produces inflamed, aching eyes due to inflammation in the eye wall.
What is the most common type of Uveitis?
Anterior Uveitis is the most common type of Uveitis affecting the front part of the eye.
What is the most severe kind of Uveitis?
Posterior Uveitis, which affects the interior portion of the eye, is the most severe form of Uveitis.
What is the most common treatment for Anterior Uveitis?
Corticosteroids are most commonly employed for treating Anterior Uveitis.
They can be given in the form of eye drops or ointments.
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