Saturday, November 22, 2008

Malignant Glaucoma

Definition
Malignant glaucoma is characterised by a shallow anterior chamber associated with raise intraocular pressure and in the presence of a patent iridotomy. The condition usually follows intraocular surgery but has also been described following laser iridotomy and has even been associated with miotic therapy.

Mechanism
It is probably due to misdirection of the ciliary processes into or around the vitreous.
Anterior displacement of the lens iris diaphragm causes a shallow anterior chamber.

Diagnosis
  1. Shallow anterior chamber with raised or normal IOP after a intraocular surgery.
  2. Ultrasound biomicroscopy

Differential Diagnosis
  1. Intumescent lens
  2. Choroidal neoplasm
  3. Central retinal vein occlusion
  4. Secondary pupil block