CHRONIC IRIDOCYCLITIS
Chronic iridocyclitis, also known as chronic anterior uveitis, is a type of uveitis that affects the front of the eye. It is a chronic inflammation of the iris and the ciliary body, which are part of the uvea, the middle layer of the eye. Chronic iridocyclitis can cause discomfort, vision problems, and even blindness if left untreated.
Causes of Chronic Iridocyclitis
The causes of chronic iridocyclitis are varied and can include infections, autoimmune disorders, and other underlying health conditions. Some of the most common causes of chronic iridocyclitis include:
-Autoimmune disorders such as sarcoidosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis -Infections such as syphilis, tuberculosis, and Lyme disease -Other underlying health conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease and psoriasis
Symptoms of Chronic Iridocyclitis
The symptoms of chronic iridocyclitis can vary depending on the severity of the inflammation and the part of the eye that is affected. Some of the most common symptoms of chronic iridocyclitis include:
-Redness and pain in the eye -Sensitivity to light -Blurred vision -Floaters -Smaller or irregularly shaped pupils -Cloudiness of the cornea
Diagnosis and Treatment
The diagnosis of chronic iridocyclitis typically begins with a comprehensive eye exam, including a dilated fundus examination, which allows the ophthalmologist to see the front of the eye. Additional tests, such as blood tests, chest x-ray, and cultures may be needed to identify the underlying cause of the inflammation.
The treatment of chronic iridocyclitis depends on the underlying cause of the inflammation. Treatment typically includes corticosteroid eye drops or injections to reduce inflammation and prevent complications. In some cases, other medications, such as methotrexate or mycophenolate mofetil, may also be used to suppress the immune system and prevent recurrent inflammation. Antiviral or antibiotics are used if the cause is identified as an infection. Additionally, underlying conditions such as sarcoidosis or rheumatoid arthritis need to be treated with systemic medications.
In conclusion, Chronic iridocyclitis, also known as chronic anterior uveitis, is a type of uveitis that affects the front of the eye. It is a chronic inflammation of the iris and the ciliary body, which are part of the uvea, the middle layer of the eye. It can be caused by various factors such as infections, autoimmune disorders, and underlying health conditions. It can cause discomfort, vision problems, and even blindness if left untreated. Symptoms include redness and pain in the eye, sensitivity to light, blurred vision, floaters, smaller or irregularly shaped pupils and cloudiness of the cornea. Diagnosis typically begins with a comprehensive eye exam, and treatment typically includes corticosteroid eye drops or injections to reduce inflammation and prevent complications. It's important to consult with an eye specialist if you suspect that you have chronic iridocyclitis.
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