Which condition involves cells and flare in the anterior chamber?

Uveitis is characterized by the presence of inflammation within the uvea, which is the middle layer of the eye that includes the iris, ciliary body, and choroid. One of the hallmarks of uveitis is the appearance of "cells and flare" in the anterior chamber during a slit-lamp examination.

"Cells" refer to inflammatory cells, typically white blood cells, that can be seen suspended in the aqueous humor of the anterior chamber. "Flare" is the term used to describe the appearance of a hazy or smoky quality in the fluid, indicative of increased protein and other inflammatory mediators. These findings suggest an active inflammatory process occurring in the eye.

Recognizing these signs is critical in diagnosing uveitis, as timely intervention is necessary to prevent complications such as vision loss. This condition can be associated with various systemic diseases, infections, or may occur idiopathically, emphasizing the importance of thorough evaluation and treatment by healthcare professionals.