Iris Issues: Symptoms and Possible Conditions - Ophthalmology

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Hello doctor, I recently noticed what seems to be a film floating on the surface of my iris (the colored part of the eye) when I look in the mirror.
It appears similar to an oil slick (this is what I see in the mirror; normally, I don’t see any patterns when looking at things).
It moves every time I blink, and there are also some slight blood vessels visible in my eye.
Is this iritis or some other condition?

Xiao Lin, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/03/03

Dr. Cai Wenyuan reply Ophthalmology


It is likely not iritis; monitor the situation, and seek medical attention if discomfort arises.

Reply Date: 2020/03/03

More Info


Hello! Thank you for your inquiry regarding the issues you've been experiencing with your iris. Based on your description, it sounds like you are observing some unusual changes in your eye, specifically in the iris area, which is the colored part of the eye surrounding the pupil. The presence of a "film" or "oil-like" appearance that moves with your blinking, along with some redness (indicated by the "微血絲" or slight blood vessels), can be concerning and may suggest a few potential conditions.

Firstly, it’s important to clarify that the symptoms you describe could be related to a variety of ocular conditions. One possibility is iritis, which is inflammation of the iris. Iritis can cause symptoms such as redness, pain, light sensitivity, and blurred vision. The "film" you see might be related to changes in the tear film or inflammation affecting the surface of the eye.
Another potential condition could be uveitis, which is a broader term that encompasses inflammation of the uveal tract, including the iris, ciliary body, and choroid. Uveitis can also lead to symptoms similar to those you are experiencing, including redness, pain, and visual disturbances.
Additionally, the appearance of a "film" could also be due to dry eye syndrome or tear film instability, where the tear film does not adequately cover the surface of the eye, leading to discomfort and visual disturbances. This condition can be exacerbated by environmental factors, prolonged screen time, or certain medications.

Given that you mentioned the presence of slight blood vessels, this could indicate conjunctival injection, which is often a sign of irritation or inflammation in the eye. This could be due to allergies, infections, or environmental irritants.

It is crucial to seek a comprehensive eye examination from an ophthalmologist or optometrist. They can perform a thorough evaluation, which may include a slit-lamp examination to assess the anterior segment of your eye, including the iris and surrounding structures. They may also check for signs of inflammation, assess your tear film quality, and rule out any underlying conditions that may be contributing to your symptoms.

In the meantime, here are a few general recommendations:
1. Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes: This can exacerbate irritation and inflammation.

2. Use Artificial Tears: If dryness is a concern, over-the-counter artificial tears can help lubricate your eyes.

3. Protect Your Eyes: Wear sunglasses to shield your eyes from bright light and potential irritants.

4. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in your vision, pain levels, or the appearance of your eyes, and report these to your doctor.

In summary, while your symptoms may suggest conditions like iritis or uveitis, a proper diagnosis can only be made through a professional eye examination. Please make an appointment with an eye care specialist as soon as possible to address your concerns and receive appropriate treatment. Your eye health is important, and timely intervention can prevent potential complications.

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