Uveitis is the inflammation of the any part of uveal tract –the pigmented middle layer of the eye.

It may occur secondary to infection, autoimmune disorder (where own body defence acts against own tissue), trauma or due to unknown reasons.

Among many other causes uveitis causes red eye. It may also include pain , redness, intolerance to light, seeing floaters, dimness of vision depending upon anatomical location of uveitis.

The initiation of the treatment includes corticosteroids (as eye drop ,oral tablet or injection),cycloplegic ( drops that gives relaxation to focussing apparatus and dilate the pupil), anti inflammatory (which helps to decrease pain and functions as maintenance medicine) and immunosuppressive medicines are required in recurrent and recalcitrant cases.

The word “ Uvea” came from the latin word “Uva” which literally means grapes. The uveal tract consists of 3 structures: 1. The iris 2. The ciliary body 3. The choroid The iris- it is the curtain around the pupil( the central aperture like that of a camera), which stretches and relax in response to light and regulates light entry inside the eye through pupil The ciliary body- It is the set of muscles that helps in accommodation i.e.focussing the near and distant objects by changing the shape of the lens The choroid-It is the middle most blood vessel rich inner coating of the eye. It lies between the retina (inside) and the sclera (outside). It helps in nourishment of the inner eye structures.

The inflammation can affect different parts of the uveal tract and the disease is named after its anatomical locations.

Anterior uveitis is the inflammation in the front i.e iris and anterior cilliary body.For example iritis,irido-cyclitis

Intermediate uveitis is the inflammation that primarily affects the jellylike substance known as vitreous humor that fills the eyeball.For example vitritis, pars planitis.

Posterior uveitis is the inflammation in the back of the uveal tract and can involve the rest of the uveal tract and adjacent retina , optic nerve.For example choroiditis, chorio- retinitis, retino-choroiditis Panuveitis is inflammation of the entire uveal tract.

Many of the uveitis disease is limited to one eye during presentation. Gradually it may involve both the eyes. Sometimes it can present in both the eyes from the beginning.