What is anterior uveitis also known as?

Anterior uveitis is often referred to as iridocyclitis. This term specifically describes the inflammation affecting the iris (irido-) and the ciliary body (cyclitis), which are components of the anterior portion of the uvea. The uvea is the middle layer of the eye, and it plays a crucial role in eye function by providing nutrients to the retina and maintaining intraocular pressure.

Understanding why anterior uveitis is called iridocyclitis underscores the significance of the anatomical structures involved. The iris controls the amount of light entering the eye, while the ciliary body is involved in the production of aqueous humor and helps with the accommodation of the lens for focusing. Inflammation in these areas can lead to symptoms such as redness, pain, photophobia, and vision changes due to their integral role in overall eye health.

In contrast, chorioretinitis refers to inflammation of the choroid and retina, choroiditis involves the inflammation of just the choroid layer, and panuveitis signifies inflammation of the entire uveal tract, which includes the anterior and posterior segments. These terms specify different areas of the eye that are affected and are not synonymous with anterior uveitis, highlighting the precise