[Intrastromal epithelial cysts of the iris: two case studies]

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Anterior Segment Surgery
• Ocular Oncology

Background:

• Intrastromal epithelial cysts are rare congenital or acquired tumors of the anterior chamber.
• These cysts can cause significant visual impairment and complications.

Observation:

• Two cases are presented: a 4-month-old infant and a 14-year-old adolescent.
• The infant case involved a large cyst obstructing the visual axis, leading to amblyopia and esotropia.
• The adolescent case presented with an iris cyst causing cosmetic modification.

Findings:

• Surgical excision was performed in both cases, with an iridectomy in the adolescent.
• The infant required multiple procedures, including enucleation due to endophthalmitis.
• The adolescent experienced a recurrence treated successfully with YAG laser therapy.

Implications:

• Intrastromal iris cysts pose challenges due to potential local extension and recurrence.
• Surgical interventions may have aesthetic or functional consequences.
• YAG laser therapy presents a viable alternative for managing recurrent iris cysts.