Phacomorphic glaucoma
Pronunciation: fay-ko-MOR-fik
Secondary angle-closure glaucoma caused by lens swelling that mechanically blocks aqueous humor drainage.
Full Definition
Phacomorphic glaucoma is a type of secondary angle-closure glaucoma that occurs when a swollen, mature cataractous lens mechanically narrows or closes the anterior chamber angle. The enlarged lens pushes the iris forward, obstructing the trabecular meshwork and preventing normal aqueous humor outflow. This condition typically presents as an acute or subacute elevation in intraocular pressure and requires urgent treatment, often including cataract extraction to remove the inciting lens. The condition is more common in hyperopic eyes with naturally shallow anterior chambers.
Usage
Usage note: Hyphenate as 'phaco-morphic' only when used as a compound modifier before a noun.
In Context
- "The patient presented with acute phacomorphic glaucoma requiring emergent lens extraction." — Emergency department note
- "Ultrasound biomicroscopy confirmed phacomorphic glaucoma with complete angle closure." — Diagnostic imaging report