Pigment-dispersion syndrome

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Pigment Dispersion Syndrome Pigment Dispersion Syndrome (PDS) is an ocular condition characterized by the dispersion of pigment granules within the eye, which can lead to increased intraocular pressure and potentially progress to pigmentary glaucoma. This condition primarily affects young to middle-aged adults and is more common in males and individuals with myopia.

Pathophysiology[edit | edit source]

The underlying mechanism of Pigment Dispersion Syndrome involves the liberation of pigment granules from the iris pigment epithelium. These granules are dispersed into the anterior chamber of the eye, where they can accumulate in the trabecular meshwork, leading to impaired aqueous humor outflow and increased intraocular pressure. Over time, this can result in damage to the optic nerve, a condition known as pigmentary glaucoma.

Clinical Features[edit | edit source]

Patients with Pigment Dispersion Syndrome may be asymptomatic or present with symptoms such as blurred vision, halos around lights, or eye discomfort. On examination, characteristic findings include:

  • Krukenberg spindle: Vertical spindle-shaped pigment deposits on the corneal endothelium.
  • Mid-peripheral iris transillumination defects.
  • Dense pigmentation of the trabecular meshwork.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

The diagnosis of Pigment Dispersion Syndrome is primarily clinical, based on the characteristic findings during a slit-lamp examination. Gonioscopy is used to assess the angle of the anterior chamber and the degree of trabecular meshwork pigmentation. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) and visual field testing may be employed to monitor for progression to glaucoma.

Management[edit | edit source]

Management of Pigment Dispersion Syndrome focuses on monitoring and controlling intraocular pressure to prevent the development of glaucoma. Treatment options include:

  • Medications: Topical ocular hypotensive agents such as beta-blockers, prostaglandin analogs, or carbonic anhydrase inhibitors.
  • Laser therapy: Laser trabeculoplasty may be considered to enhance aqueous outflow.
  • Surgical intervention: In cases where medical and laser treatments are insufficient, surgical options such as trabeculectomy may be necessary.

Prognosis[edit | edit source]

The prognosis for individuals with Pigment Dispersion Syndrome varies. While some patients may never develop significant intraocular pressure elevation or optic nerve damage, others may progress to pigmentary glaucoma, necessitating lifelong monitoring and treatment.

Epidemiology[edit | edit source]

Pigment Dispersion Syndrome is more prevalent in Caucasian populations and typically presents in the second to fourth decades of life. It is more common in males and individuals with myopia.

See Also[edit | edit source]

External Links[edit | edit source]

NIH genetic and rare disease info[edit source]

Pigment-dispersion syndrome is a rare disease.

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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD