Acute anterior uveitis

Acute Anterior Uveitis

Acute anterior uveitis (AAU) (/əˈkjuːt ænˈtɪər iːər juːˈvaɪtɪs/), also known as iritis or anterior uveitis, is an inflammation of the uvea, specifically the iris and the ciliary body, which are located in the front part of the eye.

Etymology

The term "uveitis" is derived from the Latin "uva" meaning "grape," due to the uvea's grape-like appearance. "Anterior" refers to the front part of the eye, and "acute" indicates that the condition occurs suddenly and typically has a short course.

Symptoms

Symptoms of AAU can include redness, pain, light sensitivity, blurred vision, and a small pupil. The onset of symptoms is usually rapid, often occurring within a few hours to a few days.

Causes

AAU can be caused by various conditions, including autoimmune diseases, infections, and trauma. It can also be associated with certain systemic diseases such as ankylosing spondylitis, psoriasis, and inflammatory bowel disease.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of AAU is typically made through a comprehensive eye examination, which may include a slit lamp examination, ocular pressure measurement, and sometimes laboratory tests to identify any underlying systemic disease.

Treatment

Treatment for AAU aims to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, prevent further tissue damage, and restore vision. This often involves the use of corticosteroid eye drops and cycloplegic agents. In severe cases or when associated with a systemic disease, systemic treatment may be required.

Related Terms

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Acute anterior uveitis
Wikipedia's article - Acute anterior uveitis

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