---
title: Gonioscopy
description: "Gonioscopy is a clinical test that uses a special mirrored lens to view the anterior chamber angle where aqueous humour drains from the eye. It is essential in glaucoma assessment. ## What it shows The examiner can see angle structures…"
url: "https://bluefinvision.com/knowledge-base/topics/diagnostics-testing/gonioscopy/"
updated: "2025-12-17"
category: "Diagnostics & Testing"
---

# Gonioscopy

Gonioscopy is a clinical test that uses a special mirrored lens to view the anterior chamber angle where aqueous humour drains from the eye. It is essential in glaucoma assessment.

## What it shows

The examiner can see angle structures directly.

- Relative width or narrowness of the angle
- Presence of peripheral anterior synechiae, pigmentation, or neovascularisation
- Angle recession after trauma
- Distinction between open-angle and angle-closure mechanisms

## Why it matters

Findings guide diagnosis and treatment.

- Identifies patients at risk of acute angle-closure attacks
- Influences choice of therapy, such as laser iridotomy versus trabeculoplasty
- Helps detect secondary glaucomas like pigmentary, pseudoexfoliative, or neovascular glaucoma
- Should be performed by trained eye-care professionals under slit-lamp magnification