Diseases

Episcleritis

DEFINITION: It is the germ-free inflammation of vascularized episclera layer on the sclera (white part) due to an unknown reason.


SYMPTOMS AND FINDINGS: It may cause local or general redness, light/mild sensitivity, the feeling of a foreign object in the eye, and sensitivity to light.


CAUSES AND RISK FACTORS: The cause of the disease is not obvious in most patients. It may accompany a systemic disease (rheumatoid arthritis, acne rosasea, gout, herpes, etc.) in some patients.


AUXILIARY INVESTIGATIONS AND DIAGNOSIS: Diagnosis is made through biomicroscopic examination.


TREATMENT: Topical anti-inflammatory drops (NSAIDs, steroids) are sufficient most of the time. Systemic anti-inflammatory treatments can be administered in resistant or recurring cases.