Synechiae (Eye): Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

What are the symptoms of eye synechiae?

Eye synechiae, also known as iridocorneal or iris synechiae, involve abnormal adhesions between the iris and other structures within the eye. The symptoms of eye synechiae can include:

• Visual Disturbances: Blurred vision or changes in vision are common, especially if the synechiae affect the area where light enters the eye or obstruct the view.
• Light Sensitivity: Increased sensitivity to light (photophobia) can occur, as the adhesions can alter the normal light entry and focusing within the eye.
• Eye Pain: Discomfort or pain in the eye may result from the abnormal adhesion affecting the movement of the iris or causing inflammation.
• Redness: The eye may appear red or inflamed, particularly if there is associated irritation or inflammation.
• Pupil Abnormalities: Synechiae can cause the pupil to become irregular in shape or to not respond properly to changes in light. This can affect the pupil’s ability to constrict or dilate normally.
• Vision Changes: Depending on the severity and location of the synechiae, there might be changes in how well one sees, including difficulty focusing or seeing clearly.
• Increased Intraocular Pressure: In some cases, synechiae can lead to increased intraocular pressure, potentially contributing to conditions like glaucoma.

Diagnosis typically involves a comprehensive eye examination, including slit-lamp microscopy, to assess the extent and impact of the synechiae. Treatment may include medications to manage inflammation, as well as surgical procedures to address and correct the adhesions if necessary.

What are the causes of eye synechiae?

Eye synechiae, or abnormal adhesions between the iris and other structures in the eye, can be caused by several factors:

• Trauma: Injury to the eye, such as from a foreign object, a blow to the eye, or surgical procedures, can lead to the formation of synechiae.
• Inflammatory Conditions: Chronic or acute inflammation of the eye, such as in uveitis or iritis, can result in the formation of synechiae. Inflammation causes the iris to adhere to the lens or cornea.
• Infections: Eye infections, including bacterial, viral, or fungal infections, can lead to inflammatory responses and synechiae formation.
• Previous Eye Surgery: Certain eye surgeries, particularly those involving the iris or anterior chamber of the eye, can result in synechiae as a complication.
• Glaucoma: Chronic glaucoma or its treatment can sometimes cause changes in the structure of the eye that lead to synechiae.
• Autoimmune Diseases: Conditions like Behçet’s disease or other systemic autoimmune disorders can cause inflammation in the eye, leading to the development of synechiae.
• Tumors: Eye tumors or growths can disrupt the normal anatomy of the eye and cause synechiae.
• Congenital Abnormalities: In rare cases, congenital conditions or developmental abnormalities in the eye can predispose individuals to synechiae.
• Systemic Diseases: Conditions affecting the whole body, such as certain types of arthritis or systemic infections, can have secondary effects on the eye leading to synechiae.

Treatment typically focuses on addressing the underlying cause of the synechiae and managing any associated inflammation or symptoms. This might involve medications, eye drops, or surgical interventions to restore normal eye function.

What is the treatment for eye synechiae?

Treatment for eye synechiae focuses on addressing the underlying cause, managing symptoms, and preventing complications. The approach can vary based on the severity of the synechiae and their impact on vision and eye health:

• Medications: Anti-inflammatory medications, such as corticosteroids or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can help reduce inflammation and prevent further adhesion formation. Dilating eye drops may also be used to relieve pain and prevent the iris from sticking to the lens or cornea.
• Treating Underlying Conditions: If the synechiae are secondary to an infection, autoimmune disease, or another condition, treating the primary condition is crucial. This may involve antibiotics, antivirals, or other targeted therapies.
• Surgical Intervention: In more severe cases, surgical procedures may be necessary to separate the adhesions and restore normal anatomy. This can involve procedures such as:
• Iridotomy or Iridectomy: Creating an opening in the iris to relieve pressure and improve the eye’s function.
• Anterior Segment Surgery: Addressing structural abnormalities and removing synechiae.
• Managing Complications: If the synechiae cause increased intraocular pressure or other complications, additional treatments may be required to manage these issues. This might include medications to lower eye pressure or other supportive measures.
• Regular Monitoring: Ongoing eye examinations are important to monitor the effectiveness of treatment and to detect any potential complications early.
• Supportive Care: Measures to support overall eye health and comfort, such as wearing protective eyewear or using lubricating eye drops, can be beneficial.

Treatment plans are tailored to each individual based on the extent of the synechiae, the underlying cause, and the overall health of the eye. Collaboration with an ophthalmologist or eye specialist is essential to determine the most appropriate course of action.