Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition primarily affecting the skin, causing rapid buildup of cells that results in inflamed, discolored patches with silvery scales. While commonly associated with skin and joint involvement, psoriasis can also affect the eyes. Ocular involvement, though less frequent, is an important consideration for individuals with psoriasis, as it can lead to various eye conditions.
Specific Eye Conditions Linked to Psoriasis
Psoriasis can manifest in the eyes through several distinct conditions. One is uveitis, an inflammation of the uvea, the middle layer of the eye. Uveitis can be serious and potentially impact vision if not addressed.
Another common ocular manifestation is blepharitis, characterized by inflammation of the eyelids, often occurring at the lash line. This condition can lead to redness, swelling, and scaling along the eyelid margins. Conjunctivitis, or “pink eye,” involves inflammation of the conjunctiva, the clear membrane lining the eyelids and covering the white part of the eyeball.
Dry eye syndrome is also frequently observed in individuals with psoriasis. This condition arises when tear production is insufficient or the tear film stability is disrupted, leading to dryness and irritation. Furthermore, inflammation can extend to the white outer layer of the eyeball, known as the sclera (scleritis), or the tissue between the conjunctiva and the sclera (episcleritis). These eye conditions can vary in severity and may not always correlate directly with the severity of skin psoriasis.
Recognizing Eye Symptoms
Being aware of potential eye symptoms is important to identify any ocular involvement early. Redness or irritation in one or both eyes is a common sign, often accompanied by eye pain or discomfort.
Light sensitivity, known as photophobia, can also develop, making bright environments uncomfortable. Vision changes, such as blurring or decreased visual acuity, may indicate that the condition is affecting sight. Many individuals experience dryness, a gritty sensation, or feel as though a foreign body is present in their eye.
Other symptoms include excessive tearing or discharge from the eyes, as well as an itching or burning sensation. Swelling of the eyelids or crusting around the eyelashes can also occur. Paying attention to any new or persistent eye symptoms is important, as these signs can indicate the need for medical evaluation.
Seeking Medical Attention and Treatment
Consult an ophthalmologist, an eye specialist, if any new or worsening eye symptoms develop, especially if there are changes in vision. Early diagnosis and treatment are important for managing ocular manifestations of psoriasis and preventing long-term complications. An ophthalmologist can conduct a comprehensive eye examination, which often includes a slit-lamp examination to view the eye structures. They will also review the patient’s medical history, including their psoriasis diagnosis.
Treatment approaches for psoriasis-related eye conditions depend on the specific diagnosis and its severity. For localized inflammation or dryness, topical treatments such as eye drops may be prescribed. These can include artificial tears for lubrication, anti-inflammatory drops, or in some cases, corticosteroid drops. Tacrolimus ointment is another topical option for treating ocular psoriasis symptoms like blepharitis and keratitis.
For more severe or persistent conditions, systemic medications may be considered. These can include oral corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, or biologics, many of which are already used to manage skin and joint psoriasis. Managing the underlying psoriasis is important for controlling its ocular manifestations. Regular follow-up appointments with an ophthalmologist are recommended for individuals with psoriasis, even if they are not currently experiencing eye symptoms.