Definition
The dermis (Latin sclera) is the outer layer of the eye, which together with the cornea envelops the eye. It gives the eye stability and protects it at the same time. Scleritis can occur both in the superficial layer (episcleritis) and in the deeper layer of the sclera (scleritis). The cause of the inflammation is often not known. The inflammation leads to pain, reddened eyes and bluish discoloration of the sclera.
The causes
The clinical picture of inflammation of the dermis is not completely clear. The causes of a superficial and a deep-seated inflammation can be distinguished or divided into different categories. The most common cause of the occurrence of a superficial inflammation of the sclera (episcleritis) is idiopathic – this means that it is not known.
However, there seems to be an association with stress and strain. Another cause is systemic diseases. These are diseases that affect not only one organ system but the whole body.
An example of this are autoimmune diseases, such as lupus erythematosus or rheumatoid arthritis. In rare cases, bacteria or viruses can be the trigger of episcleritis. The most common cause of deep-seated inflammation of the dermis (scleritis) is systemic disease.
These diseases are often rheumatoid arthritis, lupus erythematosus, polymyositis or gout. But other systemic diseases can also cause scleritis. Furthermore, in some cases of scleritis the cause is idiopathic.
Bacteria or viruses can also cause scleritis. However, this is rarely observed. Unfortunately, the development of this clinical picture is not fully understood.
In frequent cases, no cause can be found at all. Rather, it is assumed that there is a misregulated immune response of the body that causes this inflammation. The consequences of stress are very different, as every body deals with it differently.
However, it can be said that stress also influences the immune system and possibly triggers the development of this clinical picture. Patients who have fallen ill with inflammation of the dermis but have not been able to identify a clear cause often suffer from stress. There seems to be a connection.
