phacolytic glaucoma

phacolytic glaucoma,

an abnormal condition characterized by an acute autoimmune reaction of the eye. It is caused by hypersensitivity of the eye to the protein of the crystalline lens and commonly follows trauma to the crystalline lens or cataract surgery. Associated symptoms include swelling and inflammation of the eye, severe pain, and blurred vision. The substance of the lens is invaded by polymorphonuclear cells and mononuclear phagocytes. Accurate diagnosis must differentiate between this condition and infectious endophthalmitis. Therapy is supportive and commonly includes the administration of corticosteroids and atropine. Refractory cases may require surgical removal of the lens. Also called endophthalmitis phacoanaphylactica. Compare uveitis.

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glaucoma

a group of diseases of the eye characterized by increased intraocular pressure, resulting in pathological changes in the optic disk and typical visual field defects, and eventually blindness if not treated successfully. Uncommon in domestic animals, except in dogs where several breeds are predisposed.

The normal eye is filled with aqueous humor in an amount carefully regulated to maintain the shape of the eyeball. In glaucoma, the balance of this fluid is disturbed; fluid is formed more rapidly than it leaves the eye, and pressure builds up. The increased pressure damages the retina. If not relieved by proper treatment, the pressure will eventually damage the optic nerve, causing blindness.

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absolute glaucoma

end-stage glaucoma with buphthalmos and severe degenerative changes.

aphakic glaucoma

forward displacement of the posterior lens capsule and vitreous body with incarceration in the pupil; usually occurs after cataract surgery.

closed-angle glaucoma

one in which the iridocorneal angle is obstructed, either due to collapse or interference with drainage by the iris or connective tissue. The cause may be congenital (goniodysgenesis) or acquired, due to an abnormality of the lens, anterior chamber or iris.

congenital glaucoma

that due to defective development of the structures in and around the anterior chamber of the eye, and resulting in impairment of drainage. See also goniodysgenesis.

narrow-angle glaucoma

a form of primary glaucoma caused by abnormal development of the iridocorneal angle. See also goniodysgenesis.

open-angle glaucoma

a form of glaucoma in which there is no detectable abnormality of the iridocorneal angle, but drainage is obstructed by elements in the aqueous humor, luxation of the lens, or elevated episcleral venous pressure. In some cases, particularly in predisposed breeds of dogs such as beagles, no contributing factors are detectable.

phacolytic glaucoma

leakage of lens material from a hypermature cataract causes anterior uveitis that impedes aqueous outflow.

primary glaucoma

increased intraocular pressure occurring in an eye with no other eye disease being present.

secondary glaucoma

increased intraocular pressure due to disease or injury to the eye.