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Secondary glaucoma associated with advanced acanthamoeba keratitis.
Patrick S Kelley1, Adam P Dossey, David Patel
1Department of Ophthalmology, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390-9057, USA. dwight.cavanagh@utsouthwestern.edu
Eye & Contact Lens
|July 18, 2006
Summary
Acanthamoeba keratitis can lead to secondary glaucoma, a serious condition often resulting in vision loss. Prompt intervention, including surgery, is crucial for managing intraocular pressure and preserving sight in these patients.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pathology
Background:
- Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK) is a severe microbial infection of the cornea.
- Glaucoma is a progressive optic neuropathy often associated with elevated intraocular pressure.
- The association between AK and secondary glaucoma requires further investigation.
Observation:
- This study reviewed 20 patients diagnosed with AK and secondary glaucoma.
- Six out of 20 (30%) eyes developed secondary glaucoma during the follow-up period.
- Histopathology revealed chronic inflammation and angle closure without direct organism infiltration.
Findings:
- Secondary glaucoma developed in 30% of AK patients.
- Glaucoma treatment, including medication and surgery, had variable visual outcomes.
- Surgical intervention was often necessary for intraocular pressure control.
Implications:
- Secondary glaucoma is a significant complication of AK with a poor visual prognosis.
- Inflammatory mechanisms, not direct invasion, appear to drive glaucoma pathogenesis in AK.
- Aggressive management, potentially surgical, is vital for vision preservation in AK-induced glaucoma.