---
title: What is anterior uveitis?
description: "Anterior uveitis is inflammation of the iris and ciliary body at the front of the eye, often presenting with a painful red eye, light sensitivity, and blurred vision. ## Causes and Signs It may occur in isolation or be associated…"
url: "https://bluefinvision.com/knowledge-base/topics/conditions-diseases/what-is-anterior-uveitis/"
updated: "2025-12-15"
category: "Conditions & Diseases"
---

# What is anterior uveitis?

Anterior uveitis is inflammation of the iris and ciliary body at the front of the eye, often presenting with a painful red eye, light sensitivity, and blurred vision.

## Causes and Signs

It may occur in isolation or be associated with systemic conditions such as HLA‑B27-related arthritis, sarcoidosis, or infections.

- Clinical features include ciliary flush, cells and flare in the anterior chamber, and small, sluggish pupils.
- Keratic precipitates may be visible on the back of the cornea.
- In severe cases, fibrin, hypopyon, or posterior synechiae can develop.
- Recurrent episodes are common in some patients.

## Treatment

Management centres on intensive topical corticosteroids and cycloplegic drops, with systemic investigation guided by history and examination.

- Steroid frequency is tapered gradually according to response to avoid rebound inflammation.
- Recurrent or severe disease may need systemic immunomodulatory therapy in collaboration with rheumatology.
- Complications include cataract, glaucoma, and macular oedema, so regular monitoring is essential.
- Early treatment of flares improves comfort and visual prognosis.