Scleritis Disease

DESCRIPTION

Scleritis is an inflammation of the scleral outer coat of the eye

System(s) affected: Nervous
Genetics: None
Incidence/Prevalence in USA: Scleritis is uncommon
Predominant age: None
Predominant sex: Male = Female

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

Redness and inflammation of the sclera
Pain ranging from mild discomfort to extreme localized tenderness

CAUSES

The most common cause of scleritis is in association with collagen vascular diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis

RISK FACTORS

Individuals with autoimmune disorders, and chronic rheumatoid arthritis are most at risk

LABORATORY

Rheumatoid factor
ANA, and HLA serotyping may help aid in the diagnosis
Elevated sedimentation rate

Drugs that may alter lab results: None
Disorders that may alter lab results: None

PATHOLOGICAL FINDINGS

Nodules can form on the sclera which demonstrate fibrinoid necrosis of the sclera
There may or may not be adjacent inflammation
The scleritis may be diffuse, nodular, or necrotizing
If the posterior region of the globe is involved, adjacent swelling of orbital tissues may occur

SPECIAL TESTS

N/A

IMAGING

CT scan of the orbit may help differentiate the extensiveness and location of scleritis

DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURES

History and physical examination

APPROPRIATE HEALTH CARE

Outpatient

GENERAL MEASURES

Treatment of the inflammation usually with systemic steroids is required
All of the immunosuppressants and antimetabolites used for autoimmune and collagen vascular disorders may be of help in active scleritis

SURGICAL MEASURES

N/A

ACTIVITY

No restrictions

DIET

No special diet

PATIENT EDUCATION

N/A

PREVENTION/AVOIDANCE

None

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

Increased intraocular pressure
Cataract and glaucoma can result as a result of treatment
Ocular perforation can occur in severe stages

EXPECTED COURSE AND PROGNOSIS

Scleritis is indolent, chronic, and often times progressive
Recurrent bouts of inflammation occur

ASSOCIATED CONDITIONS

Sjögren's syndrome
Pseudo tumor

AGE-RELATED FACTORS

Pediatric: N/A
Geriatric: N/A
Others: N/A

PREGNANCY

N/A

OTHER NOTES

N/A

ABBREVIATIONS

N/A

Clinical Investigations

ROLE OF HOMOEOPATHY

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