In the management of acute non-granulomatous anterior uveitis, a topical cycloplegic such as homatropine is prescribed along with corticosteroids. The primary purpose of the cycloplegic agent is:

• A To reduce aqueous humour production and lower intraocular pressure
• B To suppress flare by stabilising the blood-aqueous barrier directly
• C To enhance corneal penetration of the concurrently administered steroid drops
• D To relieve pain from ciliary muscle spasm and to prevent or break posterior synechiae ✓

Explanation

Cycloplegia paralyses the ciliary muscle, relieving the deep boring pain produced by its spasm, and keeps the pupil dilated so the inflamed iris does not adhere to the anterior lens capsule, preventing and helping break posterior synechiae. Cycloplegics do not reduce aqueous secretion, do not alter steroid penetration, and have no direct effect on the blood-aqueous barrier, which eliminates the other three options.

Reference: Khurana, Comprehensive Ophthalmology, 7th ed.

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Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.