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Definition

By Mayo Clinic staff

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Illustration of the uvea where uveitis occurs 
Eye with uvea

Uveitis is inflammation of the uvea, the vascular layer of the eye sandwiched between the retina and the white of the eye (sclera). The uvea extends toward the front of the eye and consists of the iris, choroid layer and ciliary body. The most common type of uveitis is an inflammation of the iris called iritis (anterior uveitis).

Infections, injury and autoimmune disorders may be associated with the development of uveitis, though the exact cause is often unknown.

Uveitis can be serious, leading to permanent vision loss. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent the complications of uveitis.

References
  1. Cunnigham ET. Uveitis. The Merck Manuals: The Merck Manual for Healthcare Professionals. http://www.merck.com/mmpe/print/sec09/ch105/ch105a.html. Accessed Dec. 29, 2009.
  2. Rosenbaum JT. Uveitis: Etiology; clinical manifestations; and diagnosis. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Dec. 29, 2009.
  3. Rosenbaum JT. Uveitis: Treatment. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Dec. 29, 2009.
  4. Riordan-Eva P. Disorders of the eyes and lids. In: McPhee SJ, et al. Current Medical Diagnosis & Treatment 2010. 49th ed. New York, N.Y.: McGraw-Hill Medical; 2010. http://www.accessmedicine.com/content.aspx?aID=2002. Accessed Dec. 28, 2009.
  5. Becker M, et al. Vitrectomy in the treatment of uveitis. American Journal of Ophthalmology. 2005;140:1096.
  6. Cunningham ET. Uveal tract and sclera. In: Riordan-Eva P, et al. Vaughan and Asbury's General Ophthalmology. 17th ed. New York, N.Y.: The McGraw-Hill Companies; 2008. http://www.accessmedicine.com/content.aspx?aID=3091280. Accessed Jan. 3, 2010.
  7. Van Rooij J, et al. Oral vitamins C and E as additional treatment in patients with acute anterior uveitis: A randomised double masked study in 145 patients. British Journal of Ophthalmology. 1999;83:1277.
  8. Roberston DM (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Jan. 11, 2010.

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March 16, 2010

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