What is Uveitis?

Uveitis (pronounced you-vee-EYE-tiss) is a general term that refers to inflammation of the part of the eye called the uvea (YOU-vee-uh).

Anatomy which can be affected by uveitis in the posterior segment

In uveitis, inflammation can occur in any part of the uvea. The location and cause of the inflammation can affect the severity of symptoms. In uveitis affecting the posterior segment, the inflammation affects the choroid at the back of the eye and may affect the retina and/or optic nerve. Uveitis affecting the posterior segment is one of the least common forms of uveitis, but it is the form most associated with vision loss.

If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with uveitis affecting the posterior segment, understanding the condition is an important first step in managing its symptoms and finding a treatment to help preserve vision.

Causes of Uveitis

Uveitis can be categorized into two classifications based on the cause—non-infectious and infectious. However, in some cases, there are times when a cause for uveitis can’t be clearly identified (idiopathic).

Non-Infectious Causes:

Non-infectious uveitis refers to uveitis that is not caused by an infection. Instead, it is associated with various systemic conditions, autoimmune diseases, or inflammatory processes.

  • Post-surgical
  • Autoimmune disorders
  • Allergies
  • Malignancies (tumors)
  • Trauma

Infectious Causes:

Infectious uveitis occurs when the inflammation in the uvea is caused by an infection.

  • Bacterial infection
  • Fungal infection
  • Parasitic infection
  • Viral infection

Understanding the cause of uveitis affecting the posterior segment will help your eye doctor choose the right treatment for you. Talk with your eye doctor about any uveitis symptoms you are experiencing.

References

  1. YUTIQ® (fluocinolone acetonide intravitreal implant) 0.18 mg full US Prescribing Information.
    Alimera Sciences, Inc. June 2023.

References

  1. What is Uveitis?. Prevent Blindness. Updated June 21, 2021. Accessed November 28, 2023. 

https://preventblindness.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/FS119-Uveitisshort.pdf