Uveitis Flashcards

Which of the following is a hallmark sign of anterior uveitis?

Answer: Cell and flare

Anterior uveitis is characterized by inflammation within the anterior chamber of the eye. The hallmark signs, 'cell and flare,' refer to the presence of inflammatory cells (cells) and protein exudates (flare) suspended in the aqueous humor. These are visible upon slit-lamp examination and indicate a breakdown of the blood-aqueous barrier due to inflammation.

Which systemic disease is most commonly associated with HLA-B27 positive uveitis?

Answer: Ankylosing spondylitis

HLA-B27 positive uveitis is strongly associated with a group of systemic inflammatory diseases known as spondyloarthropathies. Among these, ankylosing spondylitis is the most common systemic condition linked to acute anterior uveitis in individuals positive for the HLA-B27 gene. This genetic marker indicates a predisposition to both the ocular and systemic inflammatory processes.

Which of the following is a typical treatment for non-infectious anterior uveitis?

Answer: Topical corticosteroids

For non-infectious anterior uveitis, the primary treatment involves topical corticosteroids, such as prednisolone acetate eye drops. These medications effectively reduce inflammation in the anterior segment of the eye, alleviating symptoms like pain, redness, and photophobia. Mydriatic-cycloplegic agents are also often used to prevent synechiae and reduce ciliary spasm.

What is a common complication of chronic uveitis?

Answer: Cataract

Chronic uveitis, especially when involving the anterior segment, frequently leads to the development of cataracts. The persistent inflammation itself can contribute to lens opacification, and the long-term use of corticosteroids, a common treatment for uveitis, is also a significant risk factor for cataract formation. These cataracts can significantly impair vision and often require surgical intervention.

Which test is most useful for evaluating posterior uveitis?

Answer: Fluorescein angiography

Fluorescein angiography is a highly useful diagnostic tool for evaluating posterior uveitis. This test involves injecting a fluorescent dye into the bloodstream and taking rapid photographs of the retina. It helps visualize the retinal and choroidal vasculature, detect leakage from inflamed vessels, identify areas of ischemia, and assess macular edema, all of which are crucial for diagnosing and managing posterior segment inflammation.

Which finding is most characteristic of granulomatous uveitis?

Answer: Mutton-fat keratic precipitates

Granulomatous uveitis is characterized by a specific type of inflammatory response. The most characteristic finding is the presence of 'mutton-fat' keratic precipitates (KPs) on the corneal endothelium. These KPs are large, greasy-looking, yellowish-white deposits composed of macrophages and epithelioid cells, indicative of a granulomatous inflammatory process.