Pigment dispersion syndrome is a condition in which the size of the pigment, which gives color to the iris, grows and spreads to other parts of the eye. The small granules of pigment can clog the drainage system of the eye, causing issues with eye pressure.
To maintain a constant, healthy ocular pressure the eye constantly produces a small amount of ocular fluid, which is secreted from the eye. If the fluid doesn’t exit the eye properly, intraocular pressure increases and in time harms the nerve endings of the ocular nerve. This condition is called glaucoma. When pigment dispersion syndrome progresses to this point, it is called pigmentary glaucoma.
Many people with pigment dispersion syndrome do not have any symptoms, but for some blurred vision or white spots in the vision field can occur. Even if you have pigmentary glaucoma, there is a chance you won’t feel any symptoms.
In time, as the ocular nerve gets more damaged, white spots in the vision field can be noticed. If all optic nerve fiber dies, this condition can lead to complete blindness.
If you have pigment dispersion syndrome, you must consult with your ophthalmologist to decrease the risk of developing pigmentary glaucoma.
Treatment of pigmentary glaucoma is the same as the treatment of glaucoma, including the medications, laser therapy or surgery.