Uveitis usually causes a red, painful eye with blurred vision. Sensitivity to light (photophobia) is a common feature. Symptoms can range from mild to severe.

Uveitis can be categorised based on which part of the eye is affected:

• Anterior uveitis: Refers to inflammation in the front chamber of the eye, affecting the iris (iritis) and ciliary body (iridocyclitis). This is the most common type of uveitis, making up 75% of cases. 

• Intermediate uveitis: Inflammation affecting the central cavity of the eye, between the lens and retina. 

• Posterior uveitis: This is a more severe form of uveitis which occurs at the back of the eye, involving the choroid and retina. Can be sight threatening and needs prompt assessment and treatment. 

• Scleritis: Refers to inflammation of the sclera, which is the white, outer coat of the eye. The sclera at the front of the eye and/or the back of the eye can be affected. Intense redness and pain are often associated with scleritis, which can sometimes disturb sleep.

• Acute uveitis lasts a few weeks and can recur

• Chronic uveitis lasts for more than three months, and can vary in intensity over time

Tests that can be done in the clinic include retinal photography and macula scans. Sometimes, a test called fluorescein angiography which involves an intravenous dye being administered to better visualise the retinal blood vessels. 

Sometimes blood tests and a chest x-ray are necessary to investigate for causes of uveitis, such as autoimmune conditions or infections affecting the rest of the body.

Treatments for uveitis will depend on the type of uveitis and the underlying cause (if one has been identified). 

Common medications used are:

Corticosteroids: Also known by other names such as “steroids,” “cortisone” or “prednisolone.” These may be administered as eye drops for anterior uveitis or with more severe uveitis or non-infectious posterior uveitis, oral or intravenous corticosteroids may be given. Occasionally, injections of corticosteroid around or inside the eye are necessary, under local anaesthetic. 

Methotrexate: A medication that aims to reduce inflammation in uveitis. It has a long history of use in a variety of other conditions including rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis. It works by reducing the production of immune cells and thereby, reducing inflammation in uveitis. 

Adaliumumab: This is a “biologic” medication. It blocks an inflammatory messenger in the body called Tumour Necrosis Factor (TNF) which dampens inflammation in uveitis.