Features

Phacolytic glaucoma

Disease
Phacolytic glaucoma is a form of secondary open-angle glaucoma associated with hypermature cataract, where lens material leaks into the anterior chamber through a permeable but intact lens capsule.

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Phacolytic glaucoma is a form of secondary open-angle glaucoma associated with hypermature cataract, where lens material leaks into the anterior chamber through a permeable but intact lens capsule.

Lens high molecular-weight proteins, and engorged macrophages that ingest the proteins, block the trabecular meshwork causing elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) and an inflammatory reaction.

Other lens-related secondary glaucomas are:

Symptoms

The patient typically presents with an acutely painful eye, lacrimation and photophobia. Vision may already be poor from the cataract, with a further potential reduction.

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