Scleritis

Alternative names:

inflammation of the sclera

Definition:

An inflammation of the sclera, the white outer surface of the eye.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Inflammation of the sclera, or the white part of the eye, is usually associated with an autoimmune disease such as rheumatoid arthritis or Wegener's granulomatosis, with metabolic disorders, infections, or chemical or physical injuries. Sometimes the cause is unknown. It occurs most often in people between the ages of 30 and 60 (it is rare in children).