Episcleritis

Question 1

What is Episcleritis?

Answer 1

Inflammation of the episclera, the layer between the conjunctiva and sclera.

Question 2

What are the common causes of Episcleritis?

Answer 2

• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Lupus
• Crohn’s disease
• Stress
• Dry or dusty environments

Question 3

What are the key signs of Episcleritis?

Answer 3

• Hyperaemia from dilated episcleral vessels
• Hyperaemia blanches with phenylephrine 10%
• No anterior chamber reaction
• No corneal or palpebral conjunctival involvement
• No effect on visual acuity

Question 4

How does Episcleritis typically affect visual acuity?

Answer 4

It usually has no effect on visual acuity.

Question 5

What are the common symptoms of Episcleritis?

Answer 5

• Acute onset
• Typically unilateral red eye, but bilateral in 25-50% of cases
• Mild ache or burning sensation
• Sometimes tender on palpation
• Occasionally watery eyes

Question 6

Is Episcleritis usually unilateral or bilateral?

Answer 6

It is typically unilateral but can be bilateral in 25-50% of cases.

Question 7

What sensation might a patient with Episcleritis feel?

Answer 7

A mild ache or burning sensation, sometimes tender on palpation.

Question 8

How is Episcleritis managed?

Answer 8

• Self-limiting in 7-10 days
• Cold compress for relief
• Artificial tears for discomfort
• Seek help if symptoms persist

Question 9

What treatment may be required for more severe cases of Episcleritis?

Answer 9

Corticosteroids and NSAID treatment may be required.

Question 10

How long does it take for Episcleritis to resolve?

Answer 10

It is typically self-limiting and resolves in 7-10 days.

Question 11

What should patients do if Episcleritis symptoms persist?

Answer 11

Seek medical help if symptoms persist beyond 7-10 days.

Question 12

What effect does phenylephrine 10% have on hyperaemia in Episcleritis?

Answer 12

The hyperaemia blanches with phenylephrine 10%.

Question 13

What systemic conditions are associated with Episcleritis?

Answer 13

• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Lupus
• Crohn’s disease

Question 14

Why might a patient with Episcleritis be referred for further investigation?

Answer 14

If symptoms suggest an underlying systemic disease, which occurs in about two-thirds of cases.

Question 15

How common is recurrent Episcleritis?

Answer 15

The condition is commonly recurrent.

Question 16

What is the role of artificial tears in managing Episcleritis?

Answer 16

Artificial tears help provide relief from discomfort and irritation.

Question 17

What makes Episcleritis different from Scleritis in terms of pain?

Answer 17

Episcleritis typically causes only mild discomfort, while Scleritis often causes severe pain.

Question 18

What is the usual prognosis for Episcleritis?

Answer 18

The prognosis is good as it is self-limiting and resolves in 7-10 days without significant complications.

Question 19

What are common environmental triggers for Episcleritis?

Answer 19

Dry or dusty environments can trigger Episcleritis.

Question 20

What should be done if Episcleritis is suspected to be linked to systemic disease?

Answer 20

Refer the patient for further investigation of possible systemic diseases.