Eur J Anat, 6 (2): 75-81 (2002)

Obstruction of trabecular orifices in primary open-angle glaucoma

Potau J.M., Canals M., Costa J., Merindano M.D., Ruano D.

Department of Human Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Casanova 143, 08036 Barcelona, Spain

ABSTRACT The morphologic and structural changes undergone by the trabecular meshwork have frequently been related to the development of primary open-angle glaucoma, which consists of a sustained increase in intraocular pressure due to the accumulation of aqueous humour in the anterior chamber of the eye. The aqueous humour leaves the anterior chamber of the eye, passing through the trabecular orifices to Schlemm's canal. Accordingly, the anatomic integrity of the trabecular meshwork is necessary to guarantee correct aqueous drainage and the maintenence of adequate intraocular pressure. In the present study, the three-dimensional morphology of glaucomatous trabecular meshworks was studied with a view to observing morphological changes possibly related to the development of primary open angle-glaucoma.

Keywords: adult, aged, anterior eye chamber, aqueous humor, aqueous humor flow, article, clinical article, disease course, human, human tissue, intraocular pressure, open angle glaucoma, Schlemm canal, trabecular meshwork