What is diffuse episcleritis?

Diffuse episcleritis is a frequently recurring inflammatory condition of the episcleral tissue, which is often bilateral. Onset is usually acute. Symptoms may only be that of a reddened area of the surface of the eye or include pain, photophobia, tearing, and a hot prickly feeling with rare tenderness to manipulation.

How can you tell the difference between conjunctivitis and episcleritis?

Episcleritis is distinguished from conjunctivitis by hyperemia localized to a limited area of the globe, much less lacrimation and no discharge. It is distinguished from scleritis by lack of photophobia and lack of severe pain. The condition is self-limited.

Which is the differential diagnosis for cases of episcleritis?

The choice of tests to be done in specific patients should be tailored for each individual based on the history, review of systems, and examination. The differential diagnosis for cases of episcleritis includes conjunctivitis, phlyctenular conjunctivitis, scleritis, and, rarely]

When to see a doctor for episcleritis recurrence?

Carefully review systems of all patients with episcleritis and complete a comprehensive eye examination to determine if a related condition exists. Patients with three or more recurrences should be referred for medical evaluation.

Is the inflammation of the episclera diffuse or sectoral?

According to one study, approximately sixty-seven percent of simple episcleritis is “sectoral” (involving only one sector or area of the episclera) and thirty-three percent is diffuse (involving the entire episclera). Episcleritis is a relatively common, benign, self-limited inflammation of the episcleral tissues.

What is the difference between nodular and simple episcleritis?

Episcleritis is a relatively common, benign, self-limited inflammation of the episcleral tissues. There are two forms of this condition: nodular and simple. Nodular episcleritis is characterized by a discrete, elevated area of inflamed episcleral tissue. In simple episcleritis, vascular congestion is present in the absence of an obvious nodule.

Is there a difference between diffuse and nodular episcleritis?

Both forms of episcleritis cause mild discomfort in the eye. The eyes may water a little and the eye may be a little tender when pressure is applied over the red area. However, vision is unaffected and painkillers are not generally needed. The diffuse type tends to be less painful than the nodular type.

What are the signs and symptoms of episcleritis?

What are the symptoms of episcleritis? 1 The most common type is called diffuse episcleritis and it makes the surface of the eye evenly red, sometimes all over… 2 The less common type is called nodular episcleritis. It comes on more slowly and causes inflamed swollen bumps or… More

How is slit lamp used to diagnose episcleritis?

The diagnosis of episcleritis is mainly based on clinical findings. Slit-lamp examination reveals edema of the episcleral tissue and injection of superficial episcleral vessels. The injection may be diffuse in diffuse episcleritis or localized and associated with a nodule in nodular episcleritis.

How to tell the difference between epiphora and scleritis?

Here are the symptoms to look out for that can help you differentiate between episcleritis and scleritis: Episcleritis. Generally, this does not result in significant pain, and usually patients only complain of mild discomfort or irritation. 4,12 Episcleritis may present with epiphora but does not result in decreased acuity. 2,3,12