primary closed angle glaucoma

Last reviewed 01/2018

In closed angle, there is contact of the peripheral iris with the trabecular meshwork (iridotrabecular contact) at the entrance to Schlemm's canal (1).

• impairment of the aqueous outflow may be caused by obstruction or by irreversible degeneration and damage of trabecular meshwork
• the closure of the anterior chamber angle may result in increase intraocular pressure (IOP).

When these changes results in glaucomatous optic neuropathy it is termed as primary angle closure glaucoma (1).

The condition is frequently bilateral and its incidence increases with age. 90% of acute attacks are unilateral (2).

Often, closed angle glaucoma presents acutely as a painful red eye.

Reference:

• (1) European Glaucoma Society (EGS) 2008. Terminology and guidelines for glaucoma (3rd edition) 
• (2) Americal Academy of Ophthalmology 2010. Preferred Practice Patterns. Primary Angle Closure