Pigment dispersion syndrome and pigmentary glaucoma--a major review

Clin Exp Ophthalmol. 2008 Dec;36(9):868-82. doi: 10.1111/j.1442-9071.2009.01920.x.

Abstract

Pigment dispersion syndrome (PDS) is an interesting condition that can lead to secondary open angle glaucoma. Pigmentary glaucoma is primarily a disease of young people, myopes and men. PDS is characterized by the presence of Krukenberg spindles, iris trans-illumination defects, trabecular meshwork pigmentation and backward bowing of the iris. Posterior bowing of the iris causes rubbing of the pigmented iris epithelium against lens structures, liberation of pigment and trabecular meshwork changes that result in reduced aqueous outflow with the risk of glaucoma. Peripheral laser iridotomy can reverse backward bowing of the iris and may prevent progression of pigmentary glaucoma.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anterior Chamber / pathology
  • Eye Neoplasms / complications
  • Glaucoma, Open-Angle / etiology
  • Glaucoma, Open-Angle / pathology*
  • Glaucoma, Open-Angle / surgery
  • Gonioscopy
  • Humans
  • Intraocular Pressure
  • Iris / pathology
  • Laser Coagulation / adverse effects
  • Lens Implantation, Intraocular / adverse effects
  • Mydriasis / complications
  • Myopia / complications
  • Pigment Epithelium of Eye / pathology*
  • Retinal Detachment / complications
  • Retinal Pigment Epithelium / pathology
  • Syndrome
  • Visual Acuity
  • Visual Fields