Pigment Dispersion Syndrome Masquerading as Acute Anterior Uveitis

Abstract

Introduction: Signs and symptoms of pigment dispersion may be confused with those of acute anterior uveitis. This case series is intended to aid the ophthalmologist in the clinical differentiation between these two disorders.

Case Series: The authors present a series of 6 patients with pigment dispersion who were initially diagnosed as having acute anterior uveitis and treated with anti-inflammatory medication, including corticosteroids. The patients were referred for a second opinion due to poor or no response to therapy and were found to have pigment dispersion instead of uveitis.

Discussion: Symptoms of pigment dispersion may consist of blurred vision, redness, ocular pain, and photophobia, all of which are also symptoms of acute anterior uveitis. These symptoms, plus the fact that pigment floating in the aqueous humor can be mistaken for inflammation, make diagnosis challenging. Moreover, the possible co-existence of true anterior uveitis and pigment dispersion makes the diagnosis and treatment more difficult.

Keywords:

• acute anterior uveitis
• pigment dispersion syndrome
• pigmentary glaucoma
• uveitis masquerading syndrome

ACKNOWLEDGMENT

Declaration of interest: The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.