involve both eyes as the effects of the toxic expo-
sure continue to develop.
Treatment Options and OutlookTreatment is immediate cessation of exposure to
the causative agent, though it is unwise and
potentially harmful for individuals to stop taking
prescribed medications without consulting their
physicians. In many circumstances the damage is
reversible and normal vision returns after expo-
sure to the toxin ends, though it may take several
weeks to several months for the damage to heal.
Risk Factors and Preventive MeasuresThe primary risk for toxic optic neuropathy is
exposure to ocular toxins. Because these are
numerous and may be prescription or over-the-
counter medications, it is important to know the
possible side effects of all medications individually
as well as in combination. Avoiding ocular toxins
or stopping medications that cause vision distur-
bances helps prevent permanent damage to the
eyes.
See also GRAVES’S OPHTHALMOPATHY; ISCHEMIC OPTIC
NEUROPATHY; OTOTOXICITY.
tropia See STRABISMUS.
uveitis INFLAMMATION of the uveal structures of
the EYE, which include the iris, ciliary body, and
choroid. Uveitis most commonly affects the front
of the eye (anterior uveitis) though may involve
specific segments of the eye or the uveal tract
throughout the eye (diffuse uveitis). Symptoms
can vary from mild to severe and may include
blurred vision, PHOTOPHOBIA(extreme sensitivity to
light), burning sensation, prominent blood vessels
(“bloodshot” appearance) radiating from the iris
into the sclera, excessive tearing, and PAIN. GLAU-
COMAis a serious potential complication of uveitis
that can lead to VISION IMPAIRMENT.
The diagnostic path includes SLIT LAMP EXAMINA-
TION and OPHTHALMOSCOPY. Treatment includes
cycloplegic drops to immobilize the iris, which
helps subdue the inflammation, and corticosteroid
drops. Some people need to use corticosteroid
drops up to several months. With prompt treat-
ment, most people recover fully and without dam-
age to the eye or to vision. Chronic uveitis may
occur with certain AUTOIMMUNE DISORDERSsuch as
INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE (IBD), RHEUMATOID
ARTHRITIS, and REITER’S SYNDROME.
See also CONJUNCTIVITIS; CORTICOSTEROID MEDICA-
TIONS; EPISCLERITIS; PAPILLITIS; SCLERITIS.120 The Eyes