Which are the causes of Uveitis?

Uveitis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the uvea, which is the middle layer of the eye. It can affect any part of the uvea, including the iris, ciliary body, and choroid. Uveitis can be caused by various factors, including infections, autoimmune disorders, and trauma. Let's explore some of the common causes of uveitis:

Infections:

Infectious uveitis occurs when microorganisms invade the eye and trigger an immune response. Common infectious causes include:

• Bacterial infections: Certain bacteria, such as tuberculosis, syphilis, and Lyme disease, can lead to uveitis.


• Viral infections: Viruses like herpes simplex, varicella-zoster, and cytomegalovirus can cause uveitis.


• Fungal infections: Fungi, such as histoplasmosis and candidiasis, can also lead to uveitis.


• Parasitic infections: Parasites like toxoplasmosis and toxocariasis can cause uveitis.

Autoimmune Disorders:

Autoimmune uveitis occurs when the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the healthy tissues of the eye. Some autoimmune disorders associated with uveitis include:

• Rheumatoid arthritis: This chronic inflammatory disorder can affect multiple joints and cause uveitis.


• Ankylosing spondylitis: This condition primarily affects the spine and can be associated with uveitis.


• Juvenile idiopathic arthritis: Children with this form of arthritis may develop uveitis.


• Inflammatory bowel disease: Conditions like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis have been linked to uveitis.


• Sarcoidosis: This systemic disease can cause inflammation in various organs, including the eyes.


• Systemic lupus erythematosus: Lupus can affect multiple organs, including the eyes.

Trauma:

Uveitis caused by trauma occurs when the eye experiences physical injury. Traumatic uveitis can result from:

• Penetrating injuries: When a foreign object enters the eye, it can cause inflammation of the uvea.


• Blunt trauma: A direct blow to the eye can lead to uveitis.


• Chemical burns: Exposure to certain chemicals or irritants can cause uveitis.

Other Causes:

There are additional causes of uveitis that may not fit into the above categories:

• Idiopathic uveitis: In some cases, the exact cause of uveitis cannot be determined.


• Cancer: Certain types of cancer, such as intraocular lymphoma, can lead to uveitis.


• Medications: Some medications, including bisphosphonates and certain antibiotics, have been associated with uveitis.


• Genetic factors: Certain genetic predispositions may increase the risk of developing uveitis.


• Environmental factors: Exposure to toxins or pollutants may contribute to uveitis development.

It is important to note that uveitis can have various causes, and a thorough evaluation by an ophthalmologist is necessary to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment. Prompt diagnosis and management are crucial to prevent complications and preserve vision.