Acute angle-closure glaucoma and effusion syndrome after phacoemulsification

Abstract

A 72-year-old female patient developed bilateral secondary iridocorneal angle-closure glaucoma with uveal effusion syndrome after uncomplicated cataract surgery. The postoperative intake of acetazolamide was identified as causative for the development of the effusion syndrome. Taking a sulfonamide-free systemic and local intraocular pressure lowering and anti-inflammatory treatment into account, a rapid improvement of the ocular manifestation was achieved. The case illustrates a rare but clinically severe adverse effect of acetazolamide and outlines efficient treatment options.