Spontaneous collapse of an iris stromal cyst in a young child

Nathalie E Perez1, Sugi Panneerselvam1, Ta Chen Peter Chang1

  • 1Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida.

Insights

A rare iris stromal cyst in a 4-month-old girl spontaneously resolved. Observation is a viable option for iris stromal cysts if they do not obstruct vision or cause complications.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Pediatric Ophthalmology

Background:

  • Iris stromal cysts are rare congenital or acquired lesions within the iris.
  • This case involves a 4-month-old infant presenting with a large iris stromal cyst.

Observation:

  • Examination under anesthesia (EUA) revealed a large iris stromal cyst involving the angle and pupillary border.
  • The cyst touched the corneal endothelium and anterior lens capsule, but intraocular pressure and refractive error were normal.
  • The pupil was partially occluded, but a clear red reflex was present, prompting observation and amblyopia management.

Findings:

  • A repeat EUA at 6 months showed spontaneous collapse of the iris stromal cyst.
  • At 2-year follow-up, there was no recurrence, and the visual axis remained largely unobstructed.

Implications:

  • Spontaneous resolution of iris stromal cysts can occur, supporting observation as a management strategy.
  • Observation is particularly suitable for cysts not causing anterior segment complications or visual axis obstruction.
  • Continued monitoring for cyst progression, anisometropia, and amblyopia is essential in pediatric cases.