Summary about Disease
Intermediate uveitis is a type of uveitis that primarily affects the middle part of the eye, specifically the vitreous (the gel-like substance filling the eye) and the peripheral retina. It's characterized by inflammation in these areas, often without a clear, identifiable cause. Intermediate uveitis can affect one or both eyes.
Symptoms
Common symptoms include:
Blurred vision
Floaters (spots or strings in your vision)
Eye pain (less common than in other types of uveitis)
Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
Causes
The exact cause of intermediate uveitis is often unknown (idiopathic). However, it can be associated with:
Autoimmune diseases (e.g., multiple sclerosis, sarcoidosis)
Infections (e.g., Lyme disease, syphilis)
Inflammatory conditions
Medicine Used
Treatment aims to reduce inflammation and prevent complications. Medications commonly used include:
Corticosteroids: Eye drops, injections (around the eye or into the vitreous), or oral medications to reduce inflammation.
Immunosuppressants: Medications like methotrexate, azathioprine, or mycophenolate mofetil may be used for more severe or chronic cases, particularly when corticosteroids are not effective or cause unacceptable side effects.
Biologic response modifiers: In some cases, medications like adalimumab or infliximab (TNF inhibitors) may be used.
Cycloplegic eye drops: To dilate the pupil and relieve pain.
Is Communicable
Intermediate uveitis is not communicable or contagious. It cannot be spread from person to person.
Precautions
Follow your ophthalmologist's instructions carefully regarding medication use and follow-up appointments.
Protect your eyes from excessive light if you experience photophobia.
If you have an underlying autoimmune disease, manage it effectively.
Inform your doctor about any new or worsening symptoms.
How long does an outbreak last?
The duration of an intermediate uveitis outbreak can vary. It can be:
Acute: Short-term, resolving within a few weeks to months with treatment.
Chronic: Long-lasting, persisting for months or years, with periods of remission and relapse.
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically involves:
Comprehensive eye exam: Including visual acuity testing, slit-lamp examination (to view the front and middle of the eye), and dilated fundus examination (to view the retina and optic nerve).
Optical coherence tomography (OCT): Imaging to assess the retina.
Fluorescein angiography: To visualize blood vessel abnormalities in the retina.
Blood tests: To rule out underlying infections or autoimmune conditions.
Timeline of Symptoms
The onset of symptoms can be gradual or more sudden:
Early stages: Mild blurring of vision, increased floaters.
Progression: Symptoms may worsen over days to weeks if untreated.
Chronic cases: Fluctuating symptoms with periods of improvement and worsening over months or years.
Important Considerations
Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent vision loss.
Regular follow-up appointments with an ophthalmologist are essential to monitor the condition and adjust treatment as needed.
Intermediate uveitis can sometimes be associated with other systemic diseases, so a thorough medical evaluation may be necessary.
Complications can include macular edema (swelling in the central part of the retina), glaucoma (increased pressure inside the eye), and cataract formation.