Acute vs. Chronic Iridocyclitis: Clinical Manifestations

Iridocyclitis, also known as anterior uveitis, is a condition that affects the iris and ciliary body of the eye. It can be classified into acute and chronic forms based on onset, duration, and recurrence.

Acute Iridocyclitis

Acute iridocyclitis is characterized by a sudden onset of symptoms, typically resolving within weeks if treated appropriately.

• Symptoms: Redness, pain, photophobia, blurred vision
• Causes: Infection, trauma, systemic inflammatory diseases
• Treatment: Corticosteroids, cycloplegics, NSAIDs

Chronic Iridocyclitis

Chronic iridocyclitis persists for months or recurs frequently, often leading to complications.

• Symptoms: Persistent eye pain, vision deterioration, synechiae formation
• Causes: Autoimmune disorders, prolonged infections
• Treatment: Long-term immunosuppressive therapy, surgical intervention for complications

Comparison and Prognosis

While acute iridocyclitis can be resolved with timely medical intervention, chronic iridocyclitis requires sustained management due to its potential impact on vision.