Birdshot is a rare form of posterior uveitis - an inflammation of the uvea, the part of the eye that provides the retina (the light-sensitive layer of cells at the back of the eye necessary for vision) with most of its blood supply.
It is not known exactly how many people have birdshot but it is more common in Caucasian people and in those who are aged 45 to 50 years old though it can also affect people who are much younger.
Birdshot often starts with floaters and/or blurred vision. These are also symptoms of a number of other conditions as well which can make birdshot difficult to diagnose early on.
People with birdshot may go on to experience other symptoms including:
After some time it may also be possible for an ophthalmologist to see cream or orange oval-shaped spots in the retina, the distinctive pattern which gives this condition its name.
The severity of birdshot symptoms varies from person to person but most people will experience flare ups of inflammation in the eye. If uncontrolled, flare ups can lead to macular oedema, a swelling in the region of the eye responsible for central vision, causing potentially blinding damage to the eye.
The exact cause of birdshot is unknown but it is thought to be an autoimmune disease. An autoimmune disease is when the body’s immune system gets confused and begins to attacks its own tissues. Currently, researchers are trying to determine what ‘triggers’ birdshot and to what extent problems with the immune system might be responsible.
Find out more about how birdshot is treated
Lines are open Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm excluding bank holidays for general enquiries or to book an appointment.
Send us your enquiry and we will get back to you as soon as possible, usually within one working day