Posterior uveitis is inflammation affecting the back of the eye, including the retina and choroid. It often causes floaters and blurred vision rather than obvious redness.
How posterior uveitis presents
Because the inflammation is deep, the eye surface may look normal. Patients notice changes in sight more than discomfort.
- Symptoms include misty vision, floaters, and sometimes distorted images.
- Both eyes can be involved, often asymmetrically.
- Autoimmune disease, infections, or inflammatory conditions may be responsible.
- Examination with dilated pupils reveals retinal and choroidal lesions.
- Imaging such as OCT and angiography helps monitor activity.
Treatment and prognosis
Control of inflammation is vital to prevent scarring and macular damage. Treatment is often more intensive and longer term than for simple anterior uveitis.
- Steroid tablets, injections, or implants are frequently required.
- Immunosuppressive drugs help reduce steroid side effects.
- Regular blood tests monitor safety of systemic treatments.
- Prompt treatment of flare-ups protects long-term vision.
- Close coordination with rheumatology or infectious disease teams is common.
