Uveitis Team Spotlight
Spotlight on Tennessee Retina’s Uveitis Team
October marks Uveitis Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about this complex group of eye conditions that can threaten vision if left untreated. At Tennessee Retina, we are proud to have a dedicated uveitis department, offering advanced care and support for patients across the region.
Our Uveitis Team
Tennessee Retina is proud to serve as a tertiary referral center for the evaluation and management of challenging cases of uveitis. Leading our program is Dr. Akshay Thomas, fellowship-trained uveitis specialist.
Dr. Thomas has a particular interest in all forms of ocular inflammatory diseases, including uveitis, scleritis, and orbital inflammation. His expertise ensures patients have access to the most current and effective treatment options available.
Supporting Dr. Thomas is a team of experienced coordinators who work closely with patients throughout their care journey, providing both clinical and emotional support. Ashley COA, OSC, CMI - Uveitis Coordinator, Rebekah COA - Uveitis Coordinator, Krista COT, OSC - Uveitis Coordinator, Lish CRT, COA, OSC- Clinic and Uveitis Service Supervisor, and Meredith CRT, COA, OSC- Uveitis Coordinator
What is Uveitis?
Uveitis refers to inflammation inside the eye, specifically within the uveal tract (the middle layer of the eye that includes the iris, ciliary body, and choroid). This inflammation can be caused by autoimmune disorders, infections, trauma, or may even be associated with systemic diseases.
Patients with uveitis may experience a range of symptoms, including:
- Eye redness
- Pain or discomfort
- Light sensitivity
- Blurred vision or floaters
- Decreased or fluctuating vision
Because uveitis can progress quickly and lead to permanent vision damage, early detection and proper management are critical.
Advanced and Collaborative Care
Treatment for uveitis is tailored to each patient’s unique needs. Depending on the type and severity of the inflammation, care may involve:
- Prescription eye drops
- Oral medications
- Injections or implants
- Advanced immunosuppressive therapy
Because uveitis is often linked to systemic autoimmune or infectious diseases, we collaborate closely with other specialists, including rheumatologists, infectious disease experts, and neurologists, to provide comprehensive care.
Raising Awareness, Protecting Vision
Uveitis is a leading cause of preventable blindness worldwide. By highlighting its symptoms and treatment options during Uveitis Awareness Month, we hope to encourage early diagnosis and intervention for those affected.
At Tennessee Retina, our mission is to protect and preserve sight for every patient. With Dr. Thomas and our uveitis team, we are committed to advancing treatment and improving quality of life for individuals living with these complex conditions.
🔗 Learn more about our uveitis care: https://www.tnretina.com/retinal-care/uveitis
