Iritis Can Accompany Anclosing SpondylitisWhile ankylosing spondylitis primarily affects the spine, its effects can also sometimes extend to the ribs, shoulder blades, hips, thighs, hands, feet, and even the heart and eyes. The specific eye problem that can affect AS patients is usually called iritis, but it more specifically is described as anterior uveitis. meaning inflammation of the uvea, or inner layer of the eye. It can be a serious problem, as it is reported to be responsible for around ten percent of the cases of blindness in the USA. The HLA B27 gene, which appears to play a part in ankylosing spondylitis, also seems to predispose one to iritis. The symptoms of iritis are eye pain, redness, light sensitivity, blurry vision, swelling and the appearance of 'floaters'. An opthamologist can measure the severity of iritis by measuring the white blood cells produced by the inflammation. They then produce a ranking from one to four, with four being the most severe. Initially, treatment is usually the application of topical corticosteroids or oral prednisolone, with the strength of the prescription varying based on the level of inflammation. Sometimes PSTTA is injected to combat swelling. Nonresponsive cases may require steriod injections next to the eye or oral steroid treatment. Finally, since the inflammation is produced by an immune system that is confused and is attacking the body, the physician may prescribe medicines that suppress the immune system (known as immunomodulatory), such as methotrexate, cyclosporine, infliximab or chlorambucil. Many opthamologists aren't trained in treating uveitis, so you may want to consult a specialist. There's a list at http://iritis.org/doctors.shtml Ankylosing Spondylitis Privacy Policy Contact Us Legal Information |