Cysts and tumours of the iris: Diagnostic tools and key management considerations-A review

The iris is a unique structure, with exquisite variations in colour and form. Pathological changes, specifically including iris cysts and tumours are relatively uncommon, difficult to diagnose, and yet potentially blinding or life-threatening. Based on a comprehensive literature review, with highly illustrated key case examples, this report aims to guide the clinician in filtering the differential diagnoses of iris cysts and tumours. Evaluation is in the context of key diagnostic clinical tools and management considerations. Diagnostic imaging techniques include serial anterior segment photography, ultrasound, anterior segment optical coherence tomography, and iris fluorescein angiography, however, the roles of computerised topography and magnetic resonance imaging are also considered in this review. Management includes categorisation in terms of solid iris tumours (melanocytic vs. non-melanocytic), or iris cysts (primary vs. secondary) that may be usefully differentiated by clinical assessment, avoiding more invasive interventions. Cystic lesions are generally benign, although implantation cysts in particular cause significant complications and surgical challenges. Most solid tumours are melanocytic and also typically benign. However, in larger lesions, rapid growth, symptoms and complications more likely indicate malignancy, requiring further investigation.

DMEK with endophotocoagulation and cyst wall removal for corneal endothelial decompensation due to iris cyst

Purpose

Iris cysts may arise secondary to surgical or nonsurgical trauma, potentially leading to corneal decompensation via mechanical injury to the adjacent endothelium. However, no well-established protocol exists for the treatment for corneal edema arising therefrom.

Observations

A 58-year-old white male presented with an iris mass of his left eye; it occupied 1/3rd the anterior chamber volume and directly contacted the corneal endothelium. The cornea was diffusely edematous, and best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) measured 20/70 (0.3). Corneal endothelial decompensation secondary to iris cyst was diagnosed. Treatment consisted of endophotocoagulation and vitrectomy probe removal of the cyst wall, with Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) also performed as a single, combined procedure. The patient subsequently experienced a resolution of his corneal edema and disappearance of his iris cyst, without recurrence of either condition. BCVA improved to 20/25 (0.8).

Conclusions and importance

Iris cyst may be a rare cause of corneal decompensation. Viable treatment may entail a single-stage procedure involving endophotocoagulation and vitrectomy probe application to the cyst wall combined with DMEK.

Iris cysts: A comprehensive review on diagnosis and treatment

Iris cysts, both primary and secondary, are a diagnostic and treatment challenge. Primary cysts arise either from the iris pigment epithelium or the iris stroma. Posterior pigment epithelial cysts are subdivided according to their location as central, midzonal, and peripheral. Iris stromal cysts are classified either as congenital or acquired. Free-floating cysts are usually dislodged pigment epithelial cysts. Secondary cysts are classified according to the underlying cause as implantation cysts, drug-induced, uveitic, tumor-induced, parasitic, or as cysts associated with systemic disorders. Differential diagnosis is based on the clinical presentation and imaging. Ultrasound biomicroscopy is the gold standard for the imaging of iris cysts, combining excellent resolution with sufficient tissue penetration. Treatment of iris cysts depends largely on whether they become symptomatic or not. Symptoms include obstruction of the visual axis, corneal decompensation, secondary uveitis, and secondary glaucoma. Treatment options cover a range from simple observation to fine-needle aspiration (with or without intracystic injection of absolute alcohol or antimitotic agents), laser (argon, Nd:YAG), or surgical excision. In the past, the prevailing notion was that of a radical surgical intervention in the form of iridectomy or iridocyclectomy. Given the high rate of recurrence, a stepwise conservative approach is currently favored by most clinicians.

Intraocular eyelashes and iris cyst in anterior chamber following penetrating eye injury: a case report

Background

The presence of intraocular eyelashes following penetrating eye injury or ocular surgery is relatively uncommon. The response of the eye to intraocular eyelashes is variable. The eyelash may be symptomatic or may remain asymptomatic for long periods.

Objective

We report a case with two intraocular eyelashes and an iris cyst after 2 years of asymptomatic period following penetrating eye injury.

Case presentation

A 24-year-old male presented with decreased vision in the left eye which he had noticed for the previous 2 weeks. His visual acuity was 6/6 in the right eye and 6/18 in the left eye, improving to 6/9 with -2.5 DC × 140° correction. The intraocular pressure was 12 mmHg in both eyes. On slit-lamp examination, the left eye showed 8 mm linear peripheral corneal opacity nasally, two eyelashes in the superior anterior chamber, and an iris cyst measuring 4 mm × 4 mm in the superior iris. The right eye was normal. Dilated fundus examination of both eyes was normal. The eyelashes and cyst were removed surgically. There were no complications during the 3-month follow-up period.

Conclusion

Intraocular implantation of eyelashes following penetrating eye injury can remain asymptomatic for long periods; however, late development of iris cyst may occur.