Iritis (iridocyclitis) : Causes, Symptoms, Complications and Treatment Options

Your eyes can reflect your health. An inflamed iris can signal an underlying health issue. Known as iritis, this condition demands early attention. Decoding its symptoms, causes, and treatments is crucial to protecting your vision and overall eye health.

What is Iritis (iridocyclitis) (Anterior Uveitis)?

Iritis, also known as anterior uveitis  (iridocyclitis) , is an inflammation of the iris which is part of iridocyclitis. This condition falls under uveitis, which broadly refers to inflammation affecting the uvea, the eye’s middle layer. Iritis typically develops suddenly and can cause redness, pain, and sensitivity to light.

Iritis(iridocyclitis)  may appear isolated.

 However, it can often signal an underlying systemic condition. 

1. Autoimmune diseases like ankylosing spondylitis or juvenile idiopathic arthritis are common culprits. 
2. Infections such as herpes simplex, syphilis, or tuberculosis may also trigger iritis (iridocyclitis)

Iritis(iridocyclitis)  is not contagious. 

However, its symptoms can worsen without timely medical intervention.

It can also lead to complications like glaucoma, cataracts, or adhesions between the iris and lens (posterior synechiae). Iritis (iridocyclitis) differs from other types of uveitis by its location—affecting the anterior (front) part of the eye—and requires precise diagnosis.

Long-term damage can be prevented by early detection of anterior iritis(iridocyclitis) . Seek advice from an eye specialist if you experience persistent eye redness or pain. Nethradhama Super Speciality Eye Hospital offers advanced diagnostic tools and treatment options, ensuring comprehensive care for your eyes.

Iritis (iridocyclitis)  Causes

Broadly they are divided into infectious and non infectious 

Autoimmune conditions are a leading cause of iritis(iridocyclitis). 

Commonly  diseases like ankylosing spondylitis, reactive arthritis, and juvenile idiopathic arthritis trigger the immune system to attack healthy eye tissues. 

Similarly, inflammatory disorders such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis can lead to anterior uveitis.

Infections 

Viruses like herpes simplex or herpes zoster, 

Bacteria such as syphilis and tuberculosis, and even fungal infections may cause iritis

Parasitic infections like toxoplasmosis are the root issue(Most common infectious uveitis)

Trauma to the eye—whether  from a sports injury, accident, or surgical procedure—can trigger iritis(iridocyclitis) .

Reaction to medications, particularly those affecting the immune system.

In certain cases, when iritis (iridocyclitis)  causes remain unknown, this condition is termed idiopathic iritisiridocyclitis).

Any untreated inflammation can worsen over time. 

At Nethradhama Super Speciality Eye Hospital, skilled specialists use advanced diagnostic methods to identify iritis(iridocyclitis)  causes accurately, enabling personalised and effective iritis treatment plans. 

Iritis (iridocyclitis)  Symptoms

Recognising iritis (iridocyclitis)  symptoms early is key to preventing long-term complications. 

1. The most common sign of iritis is Photophobia which is intolerance to bright light 
2. Eye pain. This can range from mild discomfort to severe throbbing. This pain may worsen with exposure to light, known as photophobia.
3. Redness in the eye is another hallmark symptom of iritis. The affected eye may appear inflamed, with blood vessels becoming visibly dilated. 
4. Blurry vision, making everyday activities like reading or driving difficult.
5. Increased tear production or a sensation of a foreign body in the eye. This sensation can feel like something is stuck in your eye, even when it’s not.

If you notice any of these eye iritis symptoms, it’s important to seek medical advice promptly. 

Complications of Iritis (iridocyclitis)

If left untreated,three main  complications of iritis (iridocyclitis) can permanently affect your vision. 

1. glaucoma. It occurs when the pressure inside the eye rises due to inflammation. Glaucoma can damage the optic nerve and lead to permanent vision loss if not controlled.
2. Cataracts. The inflammation can cause clouding of the eye’s lens, making it harder to see clearly over time. Cataracts may require surgical intervention, depending on their severity.
3. Macular oedema. This is a condition where fluid builds up in the retina. It can cause blurred or distorted vision and requires immediate medical attention to prevent lasting damage.

These complications leave permanent damage to its internal structures if not treated early

Treatment options for Iritis (iridocyclitis)

Prompt eye iritis treatment is essential to prevent complications and preserve vision. 

1. The treatment approach varies depending on the severity and cause of the condition.
2. Cyclopegics and Corticosteroid eye drops are the most common iritis (iridocyclitis)  treatment method for reducing inflammation. These drops can quickly alleviate symptoms, including pain and redness, by targeting the underlying inflammation. However, they should only be used under medical supervision to avoid potential side effects.
3. In some cases, oral corticosteroids or immunosuppressive drugs may be prescribed as cure for iritis (iridocyclitis) depending on severity and duration for which these medications are required.    These medications help manage the immune system’s response and reduce inflammation throughout the body.
4. If the cause of iritis is an infection, antibiotics, antivirals, or antifungal medications may be necessary to treat the underlying infection. These treatments address the root cause while alleviating eye inflammation.

Risk Factors of Iritis (iridocyclitis)

1.  Family history of autoimmune diseases is a significant risk factor.
2.  If your relatives suffer from conditions like ankylosing spondylitis or psoriasis, you may be more prone to developing iritis due to the genetic link with autoimmune disorders.
3. Having an existing autoimmune condition yourself further increases the risk. Conditions such as lupus, inflammatory bowel disease, or sarcoidosis are commonly associated with iritis. Inflammation in the body from these conditions can extend to the eyes, leading to iritis.
4. Trauma to the eye can also raise the risk. Whether from a direct injury, surgery, or
5. Exposure to chemicals, any damage to the eye can cause inflammation and potentially lead to iritis.
6. Infection is another major risk factor. Viral infections like herpes simplex or bacterial infections such as syphilis and tuberculosis can trigger iritis. People who have had these infections in the past should be vigilant about any eye-related symptoms.

Conclusion

Iritis(iridocyclitis) , if left untreated, can lead to serious complications like glaucoma, cataracts, and permanent vision loss. Recognising the symptoms early and seeking treatment is essential for managing this condition.