Inflammation of Sclera


The sclera is the white, opaque, fibrous coat of the eye that surrounds the iris, ciliary body, and the choroid. It is the outermost layer of the eye and forms the protective wall of the eye. The sclera is composed of dense, fibrous connective tissue and gives the eye its shape and support. The sclera plays a crucial role in maintaining the structural integrity and function of the eye. Inflammation of the sclera, also known as scleritis, is an eye condition that causes inflammation and pain in the sclera. In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatment of scleritis.

Causes of Scleritis

Scleritis can be caused by a variety of underlying conditions, including:

  1. Autoimmune diseases: Scleritis can be a symptom of autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and Wegener's granulomatosis.
  2. Infections: Scleritis can also be caused by infections such as herpes simplex and tuberculosis.
  3. Trauma: Trauma to the eye can also cause scleritis.
  4. Neoplastic: Cancerous or noncancerous tumors in the eye can cause scleritis.
  5. Idiopathic: In some cases, the cause of scleritis is unknown (idiopathic).

Symptoms of Scleritis

The symptoms of scleritis can vary depending on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition. Common symptoms of scleritis include:

  1. Pain: Scleritis causes severe pain in the affected eye, which can be constant or intermittent.
  2. Redness: The affected eye becomes red and inflamed.
  3. Light sensitivity: The affected eye is more sensitive to light.
  4. Blurred vision: Scleritis can cause blurred vision.
  5. Tearing: The affected eye may produce excessive tears.
  6. Swelling: The affected eye may become swollen.
  7. Double vision: In some cases, scleritis can cause double vision.

Diagnosis of Scleritis

Scleritis is diagnosed based on the patient's symptoms and a thorough examination of the eye. The eye doctor will examine the eye using a light and a microscope (slit-lamp examination). In some cases, additional tests such as blood tests, imaging studies, or biopsy may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis and to determine the underlying cause of scleritis.

Treatment of Scleritis

The treatment of scleritis depends on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition. The goal of treatment is to reduce inflammation, pain, and the risk of complications. The most commonly used treatments for scleritis include:

  1. Steroids: Steroids are medications that reduce inflammation and pain. They can be given as eye drops, pills, or injections.
  2. Non-Steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are medications that reduce inflammation and pain. They can be given as eye drops, pills, or injections.
  3. Immunosuppressants: Immunosuppressants are medications that suppress the immune system, which can be helpful in treating autoimmune-related scleritis.
  4. Antibiotics: Antibiotics are used to treat infections that cause scleritis.
  5. Surgery: Surgery may be necessary in some cases to remove tumors

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