Endothelialization of filtering bleb in iris nevus syndrome

Late failure of a filtering cicatrix occurred in a patient who had had surgery to control the glaucoma associated with the iris nevus syndrome (Cogan-Reese). The internal surface of the filtration site, as well as the anterior chamber angle, proved to be lined by corneal endothelium that had laid down a new, thick basement membrane (Descemet). The new endothelium-basement membrane probably obstructed the flow of aqueous into the bleb. Endothelialization of a filtering bleb is not unique to the iris nevus syndrome; other causes are discussed.