What causes uveitis in kids?

What causes uveitis in children and adolescents? Uveitis can be caused by infection, injury or an autoimmune or inflammatory disease. However, many times an exact cause cannot be identified. This type is known as idiopathic, non-infectious uveitis.

Do kids outgrow uveitis?

It is generally true that the child will in fact “out grow” the Uveitis, i.e., that the Uveitis will no longer be a problem eventually.

Is posterior uveitis serious?

Posterior uveitis (back of the eye) It can also occur in people with an autoimmune disease. Posterior uveitis tends to be more serious than anterior uveitis because it can cause scarring in the retina. The retina is a layer of cells in the back of the eye. Posterior uveitis is the least common form of uveitis.

Can posterior uveitis go away on its own?

Sometimes uveitis goes away quickly, but it can come back. And sometimes it’s a chronic (long-term) condition. It can affect 1 eye or both eyes. Uveitis can cause vision loss if it isn’t treated — so it’s important to see your eye doctor right away if you have symptoms.

How common is uveitis in children?

Although uveitis is less common in children than in adults, a higher percentage (40% in children, 20% in adults) presents in the form of posterior uveitis, which can be more devastating than more anterior disease.

Is posterior uveitis an emergency?

Uveitis is generally not a medical emergency unless there is an acute, painful red eye or the eye pressure is dangerously high. In such emergent cases, treatment can be sought with a general ophthalmologist for immediate control of inflammation and eye pressure.

Is uveitis a serious disease?

Possible causes of uveitis are infection, injury, or an autoimmune or inflammatory disease. Many times a cause can’t be identified. Uveitis can be serious, leading to permanent vision loss. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent complications and preserve your vision.