Uveitis

Uveitis refers to inflammation of the uveal tract of the eye: the iris, ciliary body and choroid. A variety of ocular and systemic diseases can cause uveitis including collagen vascular diseases, viral and bacterial infections, and autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis. Many cases are “idiopathic”, meaning their cause is unknown. Uveits may commonly affect the retina and the vitreous and the inflammation from the uveitis may cause a wide range of complications, including eye pain, scar tissue formation, high eye pressure (glaucoma), and swelling in the retina (macular edema). Treatments are aimed at reducing or eliminating these complications and can be effective if implemented early.