iritis

(ī-rīt′ĭs)

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[iris + -itis]
An inflammation of the iris.

SYMPTOMS
In iritis, there is pain, photophobia, lacrimation, and diminution of vision. The iris appears swollen, dull, and muddy; the pupil contracted, irregular, and sluggish in reaction.

Iritis may be secondary to systemic disease such as ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, collagen vascular disease, sarcoid, infectious agents, or HLA-B27.

TREATMENT
Steroids are used topically and occasionally systemically. Mydriatic or cycloplegic drugs are used for symptomatic relief. Cortisone or hydrocortisone is used systemically as well as topically. If the primary disease causing the iritis is known, it should be treated; however, the etiological factor is usually not known.

Descriptive text is not available for this imageOphthalmic corticosteroids should be prescribed only by an ophthalmologist or other physician skilled in their use and side effects.

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