Noninfectious Uveitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Types
Noninfectious uveitis, an inflammation of the eye's middle layer, can cause vision loss if left untreated. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications. This condition affects people aged 20 to 50, with women being more likely to develop it.
Noninfectious uveitis is not caused by infections but rather by the immune system attacking healthy eye tissues. Symptoms include eye pain, blurred vision, sensitivity to light, and floaters. There are several types: anterior (iritis), intermediate (cyclitis), posterior (chorioretinitis), and panuveitis, each with its own characteristics and underlying causes. These can range from autoimmune disorders to inflammatory conditions and other systemic diseases. For example, anterior uveitis can be associated with ankylosing spondylitis, reactive arthritis, or psoriasis arthritis. Intermediate uveitis can be linked to sarcoidosis, multiple sclerosis, or lymphoma. Posterior uveitis is often associated with sarcoidosis, Behçet's disease, or Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada syndrome. Panuveitis frequently occurs in Behçet's disease and Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada syndrome.
Noninfectious uveitis, a serious eye condition, requires prompt attention. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent vision loss and complications. Understanding the different types and their underlying causes helps in managing this condition effectively.