[Pseudoprecipitates]

Abstract

As a rule acute primary glaucoma can be diagnosed easily; however, if it is accompanied by pseudoprecipitates (precipitate-like changes of the posterios surface of the cornea), it can simulate a secondary, inflammatory increase in pressure. Pseudoprecipitates are thought to be caused by pressure-induced lesions of the corneal endothelium. They differ from true precipitates by their shape and distribution and appear to be a facultative sign of acute primary glaucoma. In cases with pseudoprecipitates examination of the corneal endothelium with the specular microscope does not reveal any specific findings, only an edema of the corneal endothelium (so-called cornea pseudoguttata).