Phacolytic Glaucoma Diagnosed by Cytopathology: A Clinicopathologic Case Series

The aim of this study was to describe the clinical presentation, histopathologic characteristics, and management of phacolytic glaucoma.

The database at the Florida Lions Ocular Pathology Laboratory was searched for surgical specimens at the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute. Patients with a diagnosis of "phacolytic glaucoma" on cytopathology between the years of 1997 and 2023 were included (n = 15). Patient demographics, anatomic site, laterality, clinical features, and ocular examination findings were obtained from available medical records.

The diagnosis of phacolytic glaucoma was established by light microscopic examination of cytology specimens in 15 eyes (Right = 8, Left = 6, not specified = 1). Between 1997 and 2023, there were 32 cytopathology cases with a preoperative diagnosis of phacolytic glaucoma. From this group of 15 cases, there were nine males and six females. Mean age was 64.2 years (Range: 39-87). Thirteen samples were from the anterior chamber and two were obtained from the vitreous. All 15 cases (100%) demonstrated histiocytes with engulfed foamy and/or granular presumed lenticular material. CD68 immunohistochemistry was positive within histiocytes in four cases that were stained (100%). Of the available medical records, clinical features, and ocular examination findings included: eye redness, decreased vision, eye pain, anterior chamber inflammation, dislocated or subluxed crystalline lens, cataract, and elevated intraocular pressure (average = 41.3 ± 8.67 mm Hg).

Phacolytic glaucoma is a rare complication of mature/hypermature cataracts that presents with ocular pain, decreased vision, and anterior chamber inflammation. AC paracentesis with cytopathologic evaluation is a minimally invasive, rapid technique that can aid in the diagnosis and management of this disease.