Angle Recession Glaucoma: Meaning, Symptoms & Treatment Explained
Angle recession glaucoma is a type of secondary glaucoma that develops after eye trauma, particularly blunt injuries. It occurs when the internal drainage structures of the eye are damaged, leading to increased intraocular pressure (IOP) and gradual optic nerve damage.
This condition can appear months or even years after the original injury, making long-term monitoring crucial. Understanding its meaning, causes, and treatment options helps in early detection and prevention of permanent vision loss.
What is Angle Recession Glaucoma?
Angle Recession Glaucoma Meaning
Angle recession glaucoma is a condition caused by structural damage to the anterior chamber angle of the eye. In this region, fluid drains through the trabecular meshwork.
When blunt trauma occurs, this angle separates or “recedes,” leading to reduced drainage efficiency and higher intraocular pressure. Over time, this persistent pressure damages the optic nerve, resulting in vision loss. Although not every trauma leads to glaucoma, people with significant angle damage remain at lifelong risk.
How Angle Recession Glaucoma Develops
Angle recession glaucoma develops after blunt trauma, causing tears or separation within the ciliary body and trabecular meshwork. This structural injury compromises the eye’s outflow of aqueous humour, allowing aqueous humour to accumulate and raise IOP.
The process may remain silent for months or years before symptoms emerge. In some cases, the eye initially heals from the trauma but later develops angle recession glaucoma due to gradual trabecular degeneration and scarring, which impede normal drainage.
Causes and Risk Factors of Angle Recession Glaucoma
Eye Trauma and Blunt Injuries
The leading cause of angle recession glaucoma is blunt eye trauma. Injuries from sports activities, motor vehicle accidents, or physical assaults can generate enough force to damage the drainage angle. Objects like balls or fists striking the eye are particularly common causes.
Additional Risk Factors
Certain factors increase susceptibility, including older age, previous ocular injuries, and pre-existing conditions such as uveitis or high myopia. The extent of the initial trauma often determines the severity of angle recession glaucoma, with deep-angle tears posing a higher risk.
Symptoms of Angle Recession Glaucoma
Early Symptoms to Watch For
The angle recession glaucoma symptoms can be subtle in the early stages. Patients may experience occasional blurred vision, mild eye discomfort, or halos around lights.
Because pressure build-up progresses slowly, many remain asymptomatic until significant optic nerve damage occurs. Regular follow-up after eye trauma is essential to detect early signs.
Advanced Symptoms
In later stages, peripheral vision loss becomes noticeable, often described as “tunnel vision.” Patients may find it difficult to see objects at the edges of their visual field. Without timely angle recession glaucoma treatment, vision may progressively deteriorate, leading to permanent impairment.
Diagnosis of Angle Recession Glaucoma
Eye Examination Techniques
Diagnosis begins with a comprehensive ophthalmic evaluation. Tonometry measures intraocular pressure, while gonioscopy allows direct inspection of the anterior chamber angle to confirm recession or scarring.
A slit-lamp examination helps assess any corneal, iris, or lens changes following trauma. Together, these tests establish the extent of structural damage and its impact on eye pressure.
Imaging and Additional Tests
Advanced imaging techniques such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) and visual field testing are used to detect early optic nerve changes and monitor disease progression. These tools provide detailed images of the drainage structures and nerve fibre layers, allowing precise assessment of angle recession glaucoma severity.
Treatment of Angle Recession Glaucoma
Angle Recession Glaucoma Treatment Options
The main goal of angle recession glaucoma treatment is to control intraocular pressure and prevent further optic nerve damage. Medical therapy typically begins with topical eye drops, including beta-blockers, prostaglandin analogues, or carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, to reduce IOP. In some cases, oral medications may be prescribed for additional pressure control.
If medical management is insufficient, surgical procedures such as trabeculectomy, glaucoma drainage implants, or selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) may be considered. These techniques improve fluid drainage and stabilise eye pressure. Regular monitoring ensures timely adjustments in treatment based on disease progression.
Post-Treatment Care and Monitoring
Post-treatment care focuses on consistent follow-ups to evaluate IOP, optic nerve health, and visual fields. Patients should use prescribed eye drops as directed and avoid activities that risk further trauma. Wearing protective eyewear during sports or hazardous work is essential to prevent recurrent injury and worsening of angle recession glaucoma.
Prognosis and Long-Term Outlook
Angle recession glaucoma is a chronic condition requiring lifelong monitoring. The prognosis depends on early detection and adherence to treatment.
With proper management, most patients can maintain stable vision. However, untreated cases can lead to irreversible optic nerve damage. Regular eye examinations after trauma are vital for preventing severe visual loss.
Conclusion
Angle recession glaucoma is a secondary form of glaucoma caused by blunt eye trauma that damages the eye’s drainage angle. It can develop long after the initial injury, making periodic eye evaluations essential for early diagnosis.
Recognising angle recession glaucoma symptoms and accessing timely treatment can preserve sight and prevent long-term complications. Anyone who has sustained an eye injury should consult an ophthalmologist for a detailed assessment and continued monitoring.
FAQs on Angle Recession Glaucoma
What does angle recession glaucoma look like?
It does not cause visible external changes. However, eye specialists can detect it by gonioscopy, which reveals separation or deepening of the drainage angle.
Can angle recession glaucoma cause permanent vision loss?
Yes. If untreated, elevated eye pressure from angle recession glaucoma can permanently damage the optic nerve, resulting in irreversible vision loss.
How long after an eye injury can angle recession glaucoma develop?
It may appear months or even decades after trauma. Therefore, anyone with a significant eye injury should undergo lifelong monitoring of intraocular pressure.
Is angle recession glaucoma preventable after trauma?
While it cannot always be prevented, prompt evaluation and monitoring after injury can help detect early changes and start treatment before vision loss occurs.
How often should I monitor my eyes after a traumatic injury?
Regular eye check-ups every 6 to 12 months are recommended after significant trauma, or more frequently if any abnormalities are detected.
Are there any lifestyle changes that can support eye health in people with glaucoma?
Yes. Maintaining a healthy diet, avoiding smoking, protecting the eyes from injury, and following prescribed treatment can help control angle recession glaucoma.
Is angle recession glaucoma open or closed?
It is a form of open-angle glaucoma. The drainage angle remains open but damaged, leading to inefficient outflow of fluid and elevated intraocular pressure.
This information is for general awareness only and cannot be construed as medical advice. Recovery Timelines, specialist availability, and treatment prices may vary. Please consult our specialists or visit your nearest branch for more details.Insurance coverage and associated costs may vary depending on the treatment and the specific inclusions under your policy. Please visit the insurance desk at your nearest branch for detailed information.
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