M J Groh1, M Küchle. 1. Augenklinik mit Poliklinik, Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Dilated episcleral vessels may be observed in patients with orbital tumors, carotid-cavernous-sinus fistula and other orbital obstructive lesions. As an idiopathic phenomenon dilated episcleral vessels may be associated with secondary open-angle glaucoma. PATIENT: We report on a 59-year-old patient with a history of secondary open-angle glaucoma and dilated episcleral vessels for 5 years (Radius-Maumenee syndrome). RESULTS: In these patients, the pressure of the episcleral vessels is elevated and therefore the outflow from Schlemm's Canal is reduced. This leads to elevated intraocular pressure and secondary glaucoma. CONCLUSION: Treatment options in this condition include medication to lower the intraocular pressure or microsurgical sinusotomy to reduce the pressure-gradient from Schlemm's Canal to the episcleral vessels.
BACKGROUND: Dilated episcleral vessels may be observed in patients with orbital tumors, carotid-cavernous-sinus fistula and other orbital obstructive lesions. As an idiopathic phenomenon dilated episcleral vessels may be associated with secondary open-angle glaucoma. PATIENT: We report on a 59-year-old patient with a history of secondary open-angle glaucoma and dilated episcleral vessels for 5 years (Radius-Maumenee syndrome). RESULTS: In these patients, the pressure of the episcleral vessels is elevated and therefore the outflow from Schlemm's Canal is reduced. This leads to elevated intraocular pressure and secondary glaucoma. CONCLUSION: Treatment options in this condition include medication to lower the intraocular pressure or microsurgical sinusotomy to reduce the pressure-gradient from Schlemm's Canal to the episcleral vessels.