Episcleritis is an inflammation of the episclera, a membrane located under the conjunctiva also called “white of the eye”. Not very painful, this condition does not necessarily require treatment. 

Definition

Episcleritis is a benign disease of the eye. It is manifested by the appearance of a red spot in the eye, resulting from inflammation of the episclera (membrane under the conjunctiva). This tissue is made up of a network of blood vessels. This condition can recur but does not threaten the vision of the affected person.

Episcleritis can take two forms:

• a “diffuse” form which manifests itself by vasodilation of the superficial episcleral vessels, resulting in partial or total redness of the eye
• a “nodular” form characterized by localized edema which modifies the relief of the eye.

Diagnostic

A red eye is a frequent consultation with the ophthalmologist. The caregiver will make his diagnosis based on:

• pain: it is moderate in the case of episcleritis
• the location of the redness (episclera)
• the redness reaction: the red spot is absorbed when drops of vasoconstrictor eye drops are poured into the eye
• light sensitivity: strong
• the presence of tears: more important

The people concerned

Episcleritis often manifests in young adults, more often in women. Often, this condition is mild and appears for no known reason.

It can nevertheless be the symptom of other diseases of the eye and, more rarely that of diseases of the system such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.

Symptoms of episicleritis are:

• a red eye
• mild pain in the eye
• a feeling of discomfort or irritation in the eye
• greater sensitivity to light
• increased tearing

Often mild, it is not necessary to treat episcleritis. Medicines may be prescribed to speed healing:

• corticosteroid eye drops 
• an oral non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)

Vasoconstrictor eye drops (tetrahydrozoline) reduce redness of the eye but do not constitute treatment.