Acute anterior uveitis in primary care.
Acute anterior uveitis is an important ocular disease of considerable interest to therapeutically and non-therapeutically qualified optometrists. This review examines the role of optometrists in the primary care setting and gives guidelines for appropriate care of patients with anterior uveitis. Diagnosis and differentiation from other forms of anterior segment inflammation are the initial requirement. In parallel, possible medical conditions associated with acute anterior uveitis must be considered, with appropriate referral to medical practitioners. In uncomplicated cases of recurrent acute anterior uveitis, optometrists can initiate topical treatment and monitor resolution of inflammation, while being aware of possible complications of both the disease and its treatment. It is especially important in new attacks of anterior uveitis to liaise with the patient's general practitioner about medical investigation for underlying disease. Atypical, complicated or severe anterior uveitis should be promptly referred for specialist care.
Gutteridge
Ian F
IF
Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia. i.gutteridge@optometry.unimelb.edu.au
Hall
Anthony J
AJ
D000208:Acute Disease; D000869:Anterior Eye Segment; D002908:Chronic Disease; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D006801:Humans; D007249:Inflammation / Q000175:diagnosis; D009907:Optometry; D017410:Practice Guidelines as Topic; D011320:Primary Health Care; D024382:Professional Role; D012017:Referral and Consultation; D014606:Uveitis, Anterior / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000188:drug therapy*; D014786:Vision Disorders / Q000209:etiology