Pigment Dispersion Syndrome
Pigment Dispersion Syndrome
Pigment dispersion syndrome (PDS) is an eye disorder in which pigment granules are shed from the back of the iris and dispersed within the eye. This can lead to increased intraocular pressure and secondary glaucoma.
Features
- Loss of pigment from the posterior iris surface
- Pigment granules accumulate in the anterior chamber, on the cornea, and in the trabecular meshwork
- May cause heterochromia or changes in iris colour
- Can lead to pigmentary glaucoma (a form of secondary open-angle glaucoma)
Risk Factors
- Most common in young, myopic (nearsighted) adults
- More frequent in men
- May be associated with certain genetic backgrounds
Symptoms
- Often asymptomatic in early stages
- Blurred vision, halos, or eye discomfort if glaucoma develops
Diagnosis and Management
- Diagnosed by slit-lamp examination and measurement of intraocular pressure
- Management includes monitoring, medications to lower eye pressure, and sometimes laser or surgical intervention
Writing Tips
- Use pigment dispersion syndrome to add medical realism or subtle visual changes in a character
- Can be a hidden cause of heterochromia or gradual vision loss