iridokornealsvinkelen

The iridocorneal angle, often referred to as the iridocorneal angle or anterior chamber angle, is the anatomical space located at the junction between the iris and the cornea. This critical area plays a vital role in the health and function of the eye, primarily in regulating intraocular pressure.

Within the iridocorneal angle, a meshwork-like structure called the trabecular meshwork is situated. This meshwork acts as a drainage system for the aqueous humor, the fluid that fills the anterior chamber of the eye. Aqueous humor is continuously produced by the ciliary body and circulates through the pupil into the anterior chamber. From there, it exits the eye through the trabecular meshwork and a secondary drainage channel known as Schlemm's canal.

The patency, or openness, of the iridocorneal angle is crucial for maintaining a normal intraocular pressure. If the angle becomes narrow or blocked, the outflow of aqueous humor can be impaired, leading to an increase in intraocular pressure. This elevated pressure is a significant risk factor for developing glaucoma, a group of eye diseases that can damage the optic nerve and lead to vision loss.

Ophthalmologists assess the iridocorneal angle using gonioscopy, a technique that involves using a special lens to visualize the angle directly. The width and accessibility of the angle are important factors in diagnosing and managing various eye conditions, particularly those related to glaucoma. Conditions like primary angle-closure glaucoma are directly related to a structurally narrow iridocorneal angle.