Posterior chamber

Posterior Chamber

The Posterior chamber of the eye is a narrow space behind the peripheral part of the iris, and in front of the suspensory ligament of the lens and the ciliary processes.

Anatomy

The posterior chamber consists of small space directly posterior to the iris but anterior to the lens. This space is filled with aqueous humour that has been produced by the ciliary body. The aqueous humour will flow through the pupil to get from the posterior chamber to the anterior chamber.

Function

The primary function of the posterior chamber is to contribute to the visual function of the eye by maintaining the correct intraocular pressure, and providing nourishment for the lens and the cornea.

Clinical significance

The posterior chamber plays a crucial role in certain eye conditions. For instance, in glaucoma, the flow of aqueous humour from the posterior chamber to the anterior chamber is blocked, causing an increase in intraocular pressure.

See also

• Anterior chamber
• Aqueous humour
• Ciliary body
• Glaucoma
• Intraocular pressure
• Iris (eye)
• Lens (anatomy)
• Visual system