Uveitis-Glaucoma-Hyphaema Syndrome. General review

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Surgical Complications
• Intraocular Lens Technology

Background:

• Uveitis-Glaucoma-Hyphaema Syndrome (UGH syndrome) is a rare but serious complication following cataract surgery.
• It results from mechanical trauma caused by a malpositioned or subluxed intraocular lens (IOL).
• This trauma affects ocular structures like the iris and ciliary body, leading to characteristic symptoms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To elucidate the pathogenesis of UGH syndrome.
• To outline the clinical presentation and diagnostic criteria.
• To review current and emerging treatment strategies for UGH syndrome.

Main Methods:

• Review of clinical case histories and ophthalmic literature.
• Analysis of pathogenetic mechanisms involving IOL-tissue interaction.
• Correlation of symptoms with diagnostic findings.

Main Results:

• UGH syndrome presents with iris transillumination defects, microhyphaemas, pigmentary dispersion, and elevated intraocular pressure (IOP).
• Chronic inflammation, iris neovascularization, and cystoid macular edema (CME) can also occur.
• Repetitive mechanical iris trauma by a malpositioned IOL is the fundamental pathogenetic step.

Conclusions:

• Accurate diagnosis relies on thorough patient history, clinical examination, and investigations.
• Treatment options range from IOL explantation/exchange to medical management and surgical interventions.
• Addressing IOL malposition is key to resolving UGH syndrome and preventing further complications.