Hyphema
Article Sections
Introduction
Hyphema is a collection of blood in the anterior chamber of the eye that originates from the vessels in the iris or ciliary body. It is typically the result of trauma to the eye. Permanent visual impairment can occur.
Pathophysiology
Hyphema occurs due to disruption of the blood vessels in the iris or ciliary body that results in leakage of blood into the anterior chamber of the eye (which is bounded by the cornea anteriorly, the angle laterally, and the lens and iris posteriorly). The blood is initially suspended in the aqueous humor but then typically layers in the inferior portion of the anterior chamber (when the patient is seated), forming a meniscus (Image 1).
Hyphemas most commonly result from trauma but can occur spontaneously due to underlying conditions.
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