Definition of Episcleritis:

Episcleritis is irritation and swelling (inflammation) of the episclera, a thin layer of tissue covering the sclera of the eye.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

The sclera is made up of of tissue fibers that form the strong white wall of the eye. It is covered by the episclera, a thin layer of tissue that contains many blood vessels that feed the sclera.

Episcleritis is inflammation of the episclera that occurs without an infection. It is a common condition that is usually mild and rarely progresses to scleritis.

The cause is usually unknown, but it may occur with certain diseases, such as:

• Herpes zoster
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Sjogren syndrome
• Syphilis
• Tuberculosis