Episcleritis is an inflammatory condition of the connective tissue between the conjunctiva and sclera known as the episclera. There is no infection present with episcleritis. Episcleritis is usually mild and rarely progresses to scleritis. The cause is usually unknown, but certain diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren's syndrome, syphilis, herpes zoster and tuberculosis have been associated with episcleritis. Women are typically affected by episcleritis more frequently than men, is recurrent, and characteristically occurs in people in their 30's and 40's. The precipitating factor is rarely found, but attacks have been associated with stress and hormonal changes. It is a common condition.