Visual loss due to posterior segment disease in scleritis.

Exudative retinal detachment and oedema of the posterior retina are well-recognized clinical entities for which a cause is rarely found. Scleritis may cause both these clinical syndromes by a spread of inflammation from the sclera into the uveal tract. Although treatment may result in a rapid resolution of scleritis, retinal detachment and macular oedema persist and prove extremely resistant, even to high doses of systemic steroids. Recovery may be incomplete and may occur only after weeks or months of treatment.