Uveitis: Classification, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Background: Uveitis is a common disease that mainly affects young people. This leads to a significant loss of material. Acute anterior uveitis is the most common form and is most often associated with spondyloarthritis, in which uveitis may be the first manifestation of the disease. Specific patterns of uveitis are generally associated with systemic disease. Therefore, close collaboration between ophthalmologists and orthopedic surgeons avoids unnecessary diagnostic tests and is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment of these patients. Acute anterior uveitis is often better diagnosed than other forms of uveitis. However, it can cause paralysis when inflammation is common. Small prospective studies with sulfasalazine have shown a decrease in growth. In some forms of uveitis, diagnosis is difficult and systemic corticosteroids and/or suppression of the immune system may require medication. Infliximab is a promising treatment for select patients.

Conclusion: Uveitis in childhood is a serious disease associated with vision-threatening problems. Uveitis associated with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis remains the leading cause of eye disease in patients with childhood uveitis.