Scleritis Flashcards
What is scleritis?
Inflammation of the full thickness of the sclera
Which is more severe, scleritis or episcleritis?
Scleritis
Is scleritis usually caused by an infection?
No
What is the most severe form of scleritis called?
Necrotising scleritis
What can necrotising scleritis lead to?
Perforation of the sclera
What systemic conditions is scleritis commonly associated with?
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Systemic lupus erythematosus
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Sarcoidosis
- Granulomatosis with polyangiitis
How does scleritis typically present?
- Severe pain
- Pain with eye movement
- Photophobia
- Eye watering
- Reduced visual acuity
What is the management of scleritis?
Consider an underlying systemic condition
* NSAIDS (topical / systemic)
* Steroids (topical / systemic)
* Immunosuppression appropriate to the underlying systemic condition
What can occur when palpating the eye?
Pain on palpation of the eye
When would you suspect scleritis?
Painful red eye, watering and mild photophobia in someone with SLE or rheumatoid arthritis
What is the initial management of scleritis?
Same-day assessment by an ophthalmologist
What medication is given first line for scleritis?
NSAID
