Retrocorneal pigmentation

Retrocorneal pigmentation was originally described as a rare congenital condition. Today it is primarily recognized as an uncommon, acquired condition secondary to surgery, trauma, or inflammation, and it may become more common as ocular surgery is being performed more frequently. Although visual loss is rarely a direct result of retrocorneal pigmentation, it may occur from secondary glaucoma, so patients with retrocorneal pigmentation must be regarded as glaucoma suspects. Presented here is a case report followed by a discussion of recent studies which have created a better understanding of the mechanisms of retrocorneal pigmentation, frequency of occurrence, and associated ocular findings.