[Diffuse endothelialization of a cyclodialysis cleft: a light and electron microscopic study].

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology and Ophthalmic Pathology
• Cell Biology and Histology

Background:

• Surgical cyclodialysis is a procedure to treat glaucoma.
• Chronic anterior uveitis can lead to secondary glaucoma.
• Complications following glaucoma surgery require thorough investigation.

Observation:

• A patient with chronic anterior uveitis developed painful secondary glaucoma 20 years post-cyclodialysis.
• The eye was removed, allowing for detailed light and electron microscopic examination.
• Histological analysis revealed extensive endothelialization within the anterior chamber and cyclodialysis cleft.

Findings:

• A diffuse endothelial layer with a Descemet-like basement membrane lined the anterior chamber and cyclodialysis cleft.
• The endothelial cells exhibited a fenestrated structure.
• The basement membrane was characterized as a multi-layered, Descemet-like membrane.

Implications:

• Endothelialization of the cyclodialysis cleft can lead to surgical failure.
• Understanding these membrane formations is crucial for diagnosing and managing post-surgical complications.
• This case highlights a rare, long-term consequence of cyclodialysis surgery.