Uveitis Screening in Children with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA)
Date issued: February 2026
Review date: February 2028
Leaflet section: Ophthalmology
PDF: Uveitis Screening in Children with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA).pdf [pdf] 146KB
Paediatric Ophthalmology
This leaflet provides information for parents and carers about eye tests in children that have been given a diagnosis of Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) by their paediatrician. It explains why ocular screening is important, what it involves, and how you can support your child.
What is uveitis?
Uveitis is an inflammation of the inside of one or both eyes. It is believed to be caused by an abnormal autoimmune response, where the body’s antibodies mistakenly attack the eyes. It can occur in children with JIA, sometimes without any obvious symptoms. If left untreated, uveitis can lead to permanent vision problems, including blindness.
Why does my child need eye screening?
Children with JIA are at increased risk of uveitis but often have no early symptoms. Regular screening is the only way to detect it early. Early detection means treatment can start promptly, reducing the risk of complications and protecting your child’s vision.
How often does screening happen?
Your child should usually have their first eye check within 6 weeks of referral to the eye clinic. After that, the frequency depends on your child’s risk factors but often includes reviews every 2 to 4 months until the child is 12 years old.
If uveitis is detected, your child will need more frequent visits depending on the severity and treatment.
What happens at the screening visit?
Your child’s vision will be checked by an orthoptist (specialist in children’s vision) or nurse. An ophthalmologist (eye doctor) or ACP (advanced clinical practitioner) will examine the eyes using a slit lamp (a special microscope) or, in younger children, a hand-held version. Eye pressure may also be checked using a simple, painless device. Dilating eye drops and imaging may be used to help with the examination.
What are the signs and symptoms of uveitis?
Most children with uveitis have no obvious symptoms at first. However, you should seek medical advice if your child develops:
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Red and/or painful eyes
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Sensitivity to light / screwing up their eyes
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Blurred / hazy vision
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Abnormal pupil shape (keyhole or cat-like shape of the colour part of the eyes)
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Clouding of the cornea (the clear outer layer at the front of the eye)
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Floaters (specks in their vision)
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Squint (eyes that look in different directions)
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Headaches
In younger children, also look out for excessive blinking, eye rubbing, visual inattention (not responding to smiles, ignoring visual targets) and preference to hearing signals.
How is uveitis treated?
The first treatment is usually steroid eye drops to reduce inflammation. Sometimes dilating drops are used. Treatment will be managed jointly by ophthalmologists and paediatricians. If eye drops are not enough, a referral to Bristol specialist team might be needed to start on stronger medicines that calm the immune system.
What happens if uveitis is left untreated?
If untreated, uveitis can cause complications such as cataracts (clouding of the lens), glaucoma (raised eye pressure), band keratopathy (calcium deposits on the cornea), swelling at the back of the eye or retinal detachment. These complications can lead to decreased vision or blindness. Screening and early treatment make these complications less likely.
Can I help my child?
Yes. The most important thing you can do is ensure your child attends all screening appointments. If you cannot attend, please rearrange as soon as possible. If you haven’t been seen in the specified time, please contact the department to arrange a review.
Report any eye symptoms promptly to the Royal Eye Infirmary. If you are travelling, ensure your child is seen at a local eye unit / emergency department as quickly as possible.
Useful contacts
For questions or concerns about your child’s eyes or delayed in review, please contact ophthalmology on:
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01752 432747
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01752 436228
Useful resources
Visit Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
Visit the Children’s Chronic Arthritis Association
Other formats
If you need this leaflet in another format such as Braille, large print, high contrast, British Sign Language or translated into another language, contact the Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS):
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01752 439694
