Uveítis y enfermedades inflamatorias oculares

Uveitis and inflammatory eye disease occur when the middle layer of the eye and surrounding tissues become inflamed, often due to an underlying autoimmune condition. In these disorders, the immune system is either overactive or activated by an infection, leading to swelling in the eye that can cause symptoms like pain, redness, light sensitivity, floaters, and blurred vision. Conditions like autoimmune uveitis, infectious uveitis, Lyme disease–related eye inflammation, rheumatoid disease, and sarcoidosis all occur when the body’s immune response triggers inflammation. If left untreated, it can damage the eyes and threaten vision.

Our Montefiore Einstein Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences team reviews each patient’s unique medical history, coordinates blood work and imaging, and works closely with multidisciplinary experts in rheumatology, infectious disease, or primary care to determine the underlying cause. A detailed eye exam and advanced imaging are used to identify where inflammation occurs in the eye, assess its activity, and monitor changes over time.

Treatment aims to reduce inflammation to protect vision and avoid flare-ups. Plans may include prescription eye drops, injections near or into the eye, and medications such as oral steroids or immune-modulating drugs that spare steroids, focusing on symptom control and long-term eye health. To learn more about different inflammatory eye diseases, their symptoms, diagnosis, and care, please explore the menu on the left.