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Long anterior zonules and pigment dispersion
Sayoko E Moroi1, Kurt K Lark, Paul A Sieving
1Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48105, USA. smoroi@umich.edu
American Journal of Ophthalmology
|December 4, 2003
Summary
Long anterior zonules, a structural anomaly, can cause pigment dispersion in the eye. This condition, characterized by pigment deposits, may be linked to glaucoma or ocular hypertension.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Anatomic Pathology
Background:
- Pigment dispersion syndrome is a condition where pigment granules are released from the iris.
- The role of ocular structures in pigment dispersion requires further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the characteristics of pigment dispersion associated with long anterior zonules.
Main Methods:
- A multicenter observational case series involving fifteen patients.
- Ultrasound biomicroscopy and transmission electron microscopy were utilized.
Main Results:
- Patients exhibited long anterior zonules inserting centrally on the lens capsule.
- Signs included corneal endothelial pigmentation, loss of pupillary ruff, and trabecular meshwork pigmentation.
- Electron microscopy revealed pigment granules on zonular lamellae without exfoliation material.
Conclusions:
- Central insertion of long anterior zonules can mechanically disrupt the iris pigment epithelium.
- This disruption leads to pigment dispersion, potentially contributing to ocular conditions like glaucoma.