Diagnosis and treatment

What are the treatments for birdshot?

In the beginning, it is usual for people with birdshot to be treated with high doses of steroids to get the inflammation in the eye under control after which the dose will be taken as low as possible. Many people will also require long-term treatment with an immunosuppressant to help stop their immune system attacking their eyes.

Unfortunately, long-term steroid and immunosuppressant use can have side effects like bone problems or stomach complaints so patients are closely monitored and may receive other medications to manage these side effects.

There is no treatment regimen that suits all people with birdshot so patients will need to work with their doctor to find out what works best for them. Moorfields Eye Hospital and others are conducting research to develop new and better approaches towards treatment for people with birdshot. 

What is the cost of treatment?

Initial consultation

From £300

This includes an initial consultation and a visual acuity assessment.

If further outpatient tests and investigations are required, they will be charged at an additional rate. Your consultant will discuss this with you at your consultation.

Treatment

The cost of onward treatment will be provided after initial consultation,  based on your personalised treatment plan.

Contact the new patient team

Call our new patient team

Lines are open Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm excluding bank holidays for general enquiries or to book an appointment.

0800 328 3421

Complete our webform

Send us your enquiry and we will get back to you as soon as possible, usually within one working day

Complete our webform