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Secondary open-angle glaucoma in histiocytosis X
American Journal of Ophthalmology
|September 1, 1977
Summary
Histiocytosis X can cause secondary open-angle glaucoma in infants. Abnormal histiocytes infiltrating the eye’s drainage system may lead to increased intraocular pressure.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Pediatric Oncology
- Pathology
Background:
- Secondary open-angle glaucoma is a rare complication in pediatric patients.
- Cataract surgery can sometimes be followed by unexpected ocular conditions.
Observation:
- A 9-month-old boy presented with secondary open-angle glaucoma, fever, and lytic bone lesions post-cataract aspiration.
- Bone biopsy confirmed a diagnosis of histiocytosis X.
- Histiocytes from bone were also found in the aqueous humor of the affected eye.
Findings:
- Abnormal histiocytes were identified in the aqueous humor of the affected eye.
- These histiocytes were similar to those found in bone lesions.
- The presence of these cells correlated with the development of glaucoma.
Implications:
- Abnormal histiocytes may infiltrate ocular structures, specifically the trabecular meshwork.
- Mechanical obstruction of aqueous humor outflow by these cells can cause glaucoma.
- This case highlights a potential link between histiocytosis X and secondary glaucoma in children.
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