Pearl Cyst of the Iris Archives » New York Eye Cancer Center

By Paul T. Finger, MD

Description

*Slit-lamp photography shows the white pearl-cyst within the temporal iris stroma. In this case, a history of tumor growth and a mild iritis were noted.*

A rare complication of cataract surgery, the “pearl-cyst” may grow from on and within the iris. The tumors are thought to be caused by displaced conjunctival or epidermal epithelium. Rupture of these mucous-containing cysts (within the eye) can cause severe glaucoma.

Symptoms

Most patients present due to ocular inflammation. They may notice the white tumor growing

*High frequency ultrasound demonstrates three layers (a mantle, mucus content, and cholesterol crystals at the center).*

on the iris.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of “Pearl Cyst” should be considered when a patient who has had intraocular surgery (cataract, corneal transplant, or filtering for glaucoma) presents with a slowly

enlarging white iris stromal tumor. High-frequency ultrasound imaging will show three layers: an outer mantle, a low reflective mucus

layer and a central, high-reflective cholesterol crystal core.

Treatments

When “Pearl-cyst” of the iris is suspected, complete surgical excision is warranted. Though difficult, the surgeon should try to remove the cyst intact. Should the cyst rupture during removal, the surgeon should be ready to aspirate or removal the cyst contents. The mucoid contents have been reported to cause secondary glaucoma. If the outer epithelial layer, the mantle, is left behind one runs the risk of cyst recurrence.