What Is The Importance Of The Uvea?

The uvea contains many of the blood vessels, which nourish the eye. Inflammation of the uvea can affect the cornea, the retina, the sclera, and other vital parts of the eye. Since the uvea borders many important parts of the eye, inflammation of this layer may be sight threatening and more serious than the more common inflammations of the outer layers of the eye. Also, due to its rich blood supply, the uveal tract is a natural target for diseases originating in other parts of the body. Because the cornea is normally clear, signs of disease may be seen inside the eye, often before signs develop elsewhere in the body.