Traumatic Iritis and Chemical Iritis

(Iridocyclitis; Traumatic Uveitis)

ByJurij R. Bilyk, MD, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital
Reviewed/Revised Oct 2024
VIEW PROFESSIONAL VERSION

Iritis is inflammation of the pigmented inside lining of the eye (uvea), iris, or both.

(See also Overview of Eye Injuries.)

Iritis can develop after blunt eye trauma or a chemical burn, typically within 3 days. However, iritis can also develop without injury (see Uveitis).

Symptoms may include tearing, redness of the eye, and a painful ache in the eye. Usually people have some blurred vision or pain when exposed to bright light (photophobia). The pupil may be dilated or irregular in shape.

A doctor bases the diagnosis on the person’s history, symptoms, and the results of a slit-lamp examination.

Treatment of Traumatic and Chemical Iritis

  • Medications to relieve pain and decrease inflammation

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