Anterior chamber dysgenesis refers to a group of developmental abnormalities affecting the front structures of the eye, including the cornea, iris, and drainage angle. These changes arise from altered embryological development of anterior segment tissues.
Features
Conditions within this spectrum include Axenfeld-Rieger anomaly, Peters anomaly, and related disorders. Findings can include abnormal iris insertion, displaced Schwalbe line, corneal opacities, and adhesions between the iris and cornea.
- Often bilateral but asymmetry between eyes is common
- Significant risk of childhood or early adult glaucoma due to angle anomalies
- Other ocular features may include corectopia, polycoria, or lens changes
- Some syndromic forms involve dental, facial, or systemic abnormalities
Management
Management requires long-term ophthalmic follow-up to monitor intraocular pressure and visual development. Treatment may include glaucoma medications or surgery, corneal procedures, and refractive correction.
- Early detection and treatment of glaucoma are crucial to protect vision
- Children often need amblyopia management and visual rehabilitation
- Systemic evaluation and genetic counselling are appropriate in suspected syndromic cases
- Multidisciplinary care helps address both ocular and systemic aspects of the condition
