Anterior Uveitis Flashcards
What is anterior uveitis?
Inflammation of the anterior portion of the uvea - iris and ciliary body.
What does the anterior portion of the uvea include?
Iris
Ciliary body
What conditions is anterior uveitis associated with?
HLA-B27 conditions
Which HLA-B27 condition is anterior uveitis associated with?
- Ankylosing spondylitis
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Reactive arthritis
Does anterior uveitis present unilaterally or bilaterally?
Unilaterally
How does anterior uveitis present?
Painful, red eye
pain on movement
photophobia (often intense)
blurred vision
lacrimation
Ciliary flush
floaters and flashes
constricted pupil
hypopyonp
What is ciliary flush?
a ring of red spreading from the cornea outwards
Why is there a constricted pupil?
Sphincter muscle contraction causing miosis
What is photophobia due to?
Ciliary muscle spasm
What is a hypopyon?
Collection of white blood cells in the anterior chamber, seen as a yellowish fluid collection settled in front of the lower iris, with a fluid level
What is the first step in the management of someone with anterior uveitis?
Urgent review by ophthalmology
What is the medical management of someone with anterior uveitis?
Cycloplegics
What is the function of cycloplegics?
They dilate the pupil which helps to relieve pain and photophobia
What are examples of cycloplegics?
Atropine
Cyclopentolate
What other medication can be given for anterior uveitis?
Steroid eye drops
