Uveitis

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Uveitis is the general name given to an inflammation of part of the uveal tract of the eye. The uveal tract is a group of connected structures inside the eye, made up of the iris (coloured part of the eye), the ciliary body (ring of muscle behind the iris) and the choroid (layer of tissue that supports the retina).

There are different types of uveitis, depending on which part of the eye is affected:

Anterior uveitis - inflammation of the iris (iritis) or inflammation of the iris and the ciliary body (iridocyclitis). This is the most common type of uveitis, accounting for 75% of cases (1).
Intermediate uveitis - this affects the area behind the ciliary body, as well as the retina and the most forward edge of the retina.
Posterior uveitis - this affects the area at the back of the eye, the choroids, and the retina.
Panuveitis uveitis - the entire uveal tract is affected.

Uveitis can be acute and short-lived, or chronic and recurrent. Uveitis is a serious condition. If it is not treated, eyesight can be seriously damaged.