Cogan–Reese syndrome

Cogan–Reese syndrome is a rare eye disorder that primarily affects the iris, the colored part of the eye. It is named after the two ophthalmologists, David Glendenning Cogan and Robert Reese, who first described the condition in 1972.

Symptoms

The main symptoms of Cogan–Reese syndrome include glaucoma, a condition that damages the eye's optic nerve and can result in vision loss, and iris atrophy, which is the degeneration or wearing away of the iris tissue. Other symptoms may include corneal edema, which is swelling in the clear, dome-shaped surface that covers the front of the eye, and iris nevus, which are freckle-like marks on the iris.

Causes

The exact cause of Cogan–Reese syndrome is unknown. However, it is believed to be associated with abnormalities in the trabecular meshwork, a part of the eye involved in draining aqueous humor, the fluid in the eye. This can lead to increased intraocular pressure, a major risk factor for glaucoma.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Cogan–Reese syndrome is primarily based on clinical examination of the eye. This may involve the use of slit lamp examination, a procedure that uses a low-power microscope combined with a high-intensity light source to examine the front part of the eye. Other diagnostic tests may include gonioscopy, which allows the viewing of the angle anatomy, and tonometry, which measures the pressure inside the eye.

Treatment

Treatment for Cogan–Reese syndrome primarily involves managing the symptoms. This may include medications to lower intraocular pressure and slow the progression of glaucoma. In some cases, laser therapy or surgery may be required to improve the drainage of aqueous humor.

Prognosis

The prognosis for individuals with Cogan–Reese syndrome varies. With early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, vision loss can often be prevented or slowed. However, the condition is chronic and requires ongoing management to control symptoms and prevent further damage to the eye.

See also

• Iris (eye)
• Glaucoma
• Trabecular meshwork

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