Chronic Non-Infectious Uveitis Affecting the Posterior Segment of the Eye
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Chronic Non-Infectious Uveitis Affecting the Posterior Segment of the Eye
While chronic noninfectious uveitis affecting the posterior segment (NIU-PS) is seen in only a small percentage of individuals, its impact on the lives of those affected cannot be overstated. With the potential to lead to permanent vision loss and often involving significant treatment burden, NIU-PS can be a difficult condition to manage. By understanding its various causes, you can create a strong, reassuring foundation along the journey to managing uveitis when it affects the back of the eye.
Uveitis Affecting the Posterior Segment
There are four types of uveitis, and generally speaking, each consists of inflammation of the middle layer of the eye, known as the uvea. When inflammation occurs in the uvea, it has the potential to affect the front, middle, and back (posterior) of the eye.
Uveitis affecting the posterior segment involves inflammation in the back of the eye and may affect the retina or choroid. It is the form most associated with vision loss, making it one of the most serious. Early diagnosis is important so that your doctor can initiate timely and targeted treatment to successfully manage your uveitis and safeguard your vision.
Infectious vs. Noninfectious Uveitis
Infectious uveitis occurs when the inflammation in the uvea is caused by an infection. The infection can be bacterial, viral, fungal, or parasitic in nature. Noninfectious uveitis refers to uveitis that is not caused by an infection. Instead, it is associated with various systemic conditions, autoimmune diseases, post-surgical side effects, or inflammatory processes. Noninfectious uveitis is the most common type observed in the US and can lead to vision loss if not treated properly.
Putting it Together: The Causes of NIU-PS
Chronic noninfectious uveitis affecting the posterior segment involves inflammation in the back part of the eye, which may include the choroid, retina, or optic nerve. This inflammation often originates from other systemic diseases in the body, including autoimmune disorders such as Behçet’s syndrome, ankylosing spondylitis, Lyme disease, sarcoidosis, and psoriasis. Uveitis can also develop as a result of inflammation that does not resolve after eye surgery. When the cause is not known, it is referred to as idiopathic by healthcare providers. In children, it is often associated with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. Understanding these causes is critical for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment strategies to lessen the risk of vision loss.
Research on chronic noninfectious uveitis affecting the posterior segment is ongoing, and clinicians are continuing to make strides in the field. Today, exploration of this sight-threatening disease has reached new heights with more studies and treatment options like YUTIQ® (fluocinolone acetonide intravitreal implant) 0.18 mg. The future is bright for improved outcomes for those affected by this condition as we gain a deeper understanding of the causes of uveitis affecting the posterior segment and the most appropriate treatment options. To learn more, please visit our website.