Quantitation of anterior chamber inflammation and its response to therapy.

Anterior uveitis was produced in the rabbit eye by introducing a standardized clove oil globule into the anterior chamber. The response was characterized by an increase in the vascular permeability of the anterior uveal tract, resulting in the exudation of protein and the migration of leukocytes into the anterior chamber. Using radiolabeled agents and couting techniques, protein and cells in the aqueous humor were measured, providing an objective, quantitative assessment of the severity of inflammation in the anterior chamber. Frequent topical administration of 1.0% prednisolone acetate during the first 100 hours of the experimental anterior uveitis produced a significant decrease both in protein and in the number of leukocytes in the anterior chamber.