Iritis: Inflammation of the Iris

 Iritis, also known as anterior uveitis, is the inflammation of the iris, the colored part of the eye surrounding the pupil. It is a potentially serious condition that, if left untreated, can lead to complications, including vision loss.

Causes of Iritis

1. Idiopathic

   
   
   

   • In many cases, the exact cause is unknown.

2. Infections

   • Viral: Herpes simplex, herpes zoster.

   • Bacterial: Tuberculosis, syphilis, or Lyme disease.

   • Parasitic: Toxoplasmosis.

3. Autoimmune and Inflammatory Diseases

   • Ankylosing Spondylitis

   • Reactive Arthritis (Reiter’s Syndrome)

   • Sarcoidosis

   • Inflammatory Bowel Disease (Crohn’s or Ulcerative Colitis)

4. Trauma

   • Eye injury or surgery can lead to inflammation.

5. Medications

   • Certain drugs, like bisphosphonates, may trigger iritis in rare cases.

6. Other Conditions

   • Rarely, cancers like lymphoma or melanoma may present with iritis.

Symptoms of Iritis

• Eye Pain: Usually felt as a deep, aching pain in the affected eye.

• Redness: Especially around the colored part of the eye (ciliary flush).

• Light Sensitivity (Photophobia): Discomfort or pain when exposed to bright light.

• Blurred Vision: Reduced clarity of sight.

• Small or Irregular Pupil: May appear smaller or respond abnormally to light.

Diagnosis

To diagnose iritis, an eye specialist (ophthalmologist) will:

1. Medical History: Review symptoms, medical conditions, and potential triggers.

2. Eye Examination:

   • Slit Lamp Examination: To observe inflammation, white blood cells, and protein deposits in the anterior chamber.

   • Pupil Testing: To check the response and shape of the pupil.

3. Laboratory Tests:

   • Blood tests or imaging may be ordered to identify underlying systemic conditions.

   • Eye fluid analysis in severe or unusual cases.

Treatment for Iritis

1. Medications

• Corticosteroid Eye Drops: Reduce inflammation.

• Dilating Eye Drops: Prevent painful muscle spasms and keep the pupil from sticking to the lens (posterior synechiae).

• Systemic Medications: Oral steroids or immunosuppressants for severe or recurrent cases.

2. Treatment of Underlying Causes

• Address infections, autoimmune conditions, or other systemic diseases contributing to iritis.

Complications

Untreated or recurrent iritis can lead to:

1. Glaucoma: Increased pressure in the eye due to blocked drainage.

2. Cataracts: Clouding of the lens from chronic inflammation or steroid use.

3. Posterior Synechiae: Adhesions between the iris and lens, which can impair vision.

4. Macular Edema: Swelling of the central retina leading to vision loss.

5. Permanent Vision Loss: In severe or neglected cases.

Prevention

While it is not always possible to prevent iritis, you can reduce the risk of complications by:

1. Regular Eye Exams: Especially if you have autoimmune or inflammatory conditions.

2. Protecting the Eyes: Use appropriate eyewear to prevent trauma.

3. Managing Systemic Conditions: Proper treatment of autoimmune or infectious diseases.

When to See a Doctor

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Sudden eye pain and redness.

• Sensitivity to light.

• Vision changes.

Living with Iritis

With timely diagnosis and treatment, most people recover from iritis without lasting damage. Consistent follow-up care is essential for managing recurrences and preventing complications