ACUTE IRIDOCYCLITIS

 Acute Iridocyclitis: An Overview

Acute iridocyclitis, also known as anterior uveitis, is an inflammation of the iris and ciliary body in the eye. It is a relatively common condition that can cause severe pain, redness, and light sensitivity in the affected eye. In some cases, it can also lead to long-term vision problems if not properly treated.

Symptoms

The most common symptoms of acute iridocyclitis include:

  • Pain in the affected eye
  • Redness and swelling of the eye
  • Light sensitivity
  • Blurred vision
  • Small, irregularly-shaped pupils
  • Flashes of light or floaters in the vision

Causes

The exact cause of acute iridocyclitis is often unknown, but it is believed to be an autoimmune disorder in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells in the eye. In some cases, it may be triggered by an infection, injury, or other underlying medical condition.

Risk Factors

Certain factors may increase the risk of developing acute iridocyclitis, including:

  • Having a history of autoimmune disorders
  • Having a family history of the condition
  • Being a smoker
  • Being older than 50
  • Having certain underlying medical conditions, such as sarcoidosis or ankylosing spondylitis

Diagnosis

Acute iridocyclitis is usually diagnosed through a comprehensive eye exam, during which the doctor will examine the eye for signs of inflammation and check for any other underlying conditions. Additional tests may also be conducted, such as a visual acuity test, a dilated eye exam, and an ultrasound of the eye.

Treatment

The goal of treatment for acute iridocyclitis is to reduce inflammation and prevent long-term damage to the eye. Treatment options may include:

  • Topical and oral corticosteroids: These medications can help reduce inflammation and pain in the eye.
  • Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): These medications can also be used to reduce inflammation and pain.
  • Immunosuppressive drugs: In some cases, immunosuppressive drugs may be prescribed to suppress the immune system and reduce inflammation in the eye.
  • Eye drops: Eye drops containing cycloplegic and mydriatic agents can be used to dilate the pupil and relieve pain.

In addition to medical treatment, it is important to protect the affected eye from further injury or irritation. This may include wearing sunglasses or an eye patch, avoiding bright lights, and avoiding activities that may cause further trauma to the eye.

Prognosis

The prognosis for acute iridocyclitis is generally good with proper treatment, most people with the condition experience improvement within a few days to a week. However, in some cases, the condition may recur or lead to long-term vision problems.

Complications

In some cases, acute iridocyclitis can lead to complications, such as:

  • Cataract: Inflammation in the eye can lead to the development of a cataract, which is a clouding of the lens.
  • Glaucoma: Inflammation can also increase the pressure in the eye, which can lead to glaucoma.
  • Vision loss: In rare cases, acute iridocyclitis can lead to permanent vision loss if left untreated.

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