This leaflet is intended to explain what is and how it will effect you

What is Uveitis? Uveitis

The uve in uveitis describes the uveal tract, which includes: (the coloured part of the eye at the front of the eye) (the ring of muscle behind the iris) (the layer of tissue lining the inside of the eye behind the ) Uveitis is the name for inflammation of the . The ending „itis‟ means inflammation.

Information Leaflet number: 507(05/08/2014) Author/contact: Gisella Cooper

Uveitis

Review 2016

Where in my eye do I have Uveitis? Uveitis can occur in any part of the eye, if it occurs in the iris and cilliary body (the front of the eye) it is known as anterior uveitis.

If the uveitis is in the ciliary body, then the jelly in the middle of the eye (vitreous) can be affected and become cloudy. This is called intermediate uveitis.

Inflammation in the choroid, which can involve the retina or retinal vessels, is known as posterior uveitis and can also cause clouding of the vitreous jelly.

If the uveitis is present in all parts of the eye it is known as pan uveitis.

What causes uveitis? There are different causes of uveitis, some of which are:

Infection: This could be viral or bacterial and even parasitic.

Trauma and injury: to the eye can lead to uveitis.

Autoimmune disease: An inflammatory response in other parts of the body can also involve eyes. One of the more common conditions associated with uveitis is juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA).

Idiopathic: Sometimes no cause is ever found, in which case it is called “idiopathic” meaning cause unknown.

What are the symptoms? What will happen in the future? Symptoms that may be experienced are: Prognosis varies greatly, but with regular checks and drug Redness of the eye management uveitis can be well managed and controlled with good Pain visual outcomes. There are however, some children that develop Sensitivity to light () Uveitis related complications such us: , and Blurred or cloudy vision retinal detachments, which may require surgery. This is especially Loss or reduction of vision the case if treatment is not complied with. Loss or reduction of peripheral vision (the ability to see objects at Good compliance with appointments and medication is therefore the side of your field of vision crucial in the overall outcome of your child‟s eyesight. (debris in the vitreous jelly appear as dots in your vision) Synechiae (irregular shaped ) caused by inflammation in the Contact information anterior chamber of the eye. Uveitis Nurse Gisella Cooper Bleep 268 via switchboard 0114 2717000 It is important to note that not everyone will experience symptoms, and not having symptoms does not mean that you no longer have secretaries: uveitis. Sarah Nash 0114 2717713 Sarah Hayes 0114 2717468 How is uveitis treated? Lavinia Clarke 0114 2717520

Uveitis can be treated with eye drops. The most common eye drops used to treat uveitis are an anti inflammatory steroid drop. For some people a pupil enlarging drop (dilating) is necessary as well.

Sometimes drops are not enough to treat the uveitis. If this is the case, you may need stronger medication. This may be taken by mouth or injection form. You will have a lot of support with this from the nurse specialists, who will be more than happy to advise you.

How often will I need to come to appointments?

It is important to remember that the nature of uveitis is that it is often without any symptoms in children. Damage may be occurring to the eye without anyone knowing. This can lead to loss or reduction of vision. This is why it is crucial for the ophthalmologist to be able to examine the back and front of the eye for signs of disease progression on a regular basis. For this reason, it is really important that you attend all of your appointments. If for any reason you are unable to attend your appointment please contact the specialist nurse on bleep 268 or ophthalmology secretaries to make alternative arrangements.