Which type of anterior scleritis is typically diffuse?

• A. Diffuse non-necrotizing
• B. Nodular non-necrotizing
• C. Necrotizing with inflammation
• D. Necrotizing without inflammation

Answer: (A)

The pattern of inflammation in anterior scleritis is what distinguishes diffuse from nodular forms. In diffuse non-necrotizing anterior scleritis, the inflammation blankets a broad area of the anterior sclera, producing widespread redness and tenderness without tissue death. This broad, uniform involvement is what makes it “diffuse.” In contrast, nodular non-necrotizing scleritis presents as discrete nodules with localized inflammation, and necrotizing forms involve scleral thinning or death, often with severe pain and a different distribution that isn’t described as diffuse. So the diffuse, widespread involvement without necrosis is the hallmark of the diffuse non-necrotizing type.