When should I refer a patient with scleritis to an ophthalmologist?

Guideline-aligned answer with reasoning, red flags and references. Clinically reviewed by Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGP.

Posted: 17 August 2025Updated: 17 August 2025 Guideline-Aligned (High Confidence) Clinically Reviewed
Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGPClinical Lead • iatroX

You should refer a patient with scleritis to an ophthalmologist in several situations:

  • If symptoms persist despite primary care management .
  • If other diagnoses need to be ruled out .
  • To prevent rare complications, such as sight-threatening keratitis .
  • Immediately (same-day) if there is severe eye pain and a significant reduction in vision .
  • Immediately (same-day) if there is a significant reduction in vision, severe pain, or significantly raised intraocular pressure .
  • Immediately if there is eye pain with vision loss .
  • If there is an uncertain diagnosis .
  • If symptoms do not respond to primary care management .

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