the Impact of Eye Cysts on Glaucoma and Vision Loss

Cyst of the water chamber

Fifteen years ago, when I was in high school, I had a bulging, blister-like formation on the surface of my eye.
I went to see an ophthalmologist who punctured it, and since then, there has been a membrane on the surface of the eye.
Recently, I visited , and they informed me that even after the blister was punctured, there is still a "sac" inside the eye that is pressing on the eyeball.
They suggested a minor surgery, but other ophthalmologists did not mention anything about the "sac." I have early-stage glaucoma; could this be related to the "sac"? Does the "sac" require minor surgery? Will the "sac" gradually cause visual field loss? Thank you.

Shui Shui, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/01/30

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello,
Conjunctival cysts are epidermal cells that have migrated beneath the conjunctiva due to certain traumatic factors.
These cells secrete mucus, causing the conjunctiva to bulge like a bubble.
This condition may cause discomfort, and while puncturing the cyst can reduce swelling, it may eventually reappear.
It is unrelated to glaucoma and will not cause any visual field loss.

At the Puzih Hospital Eye Clinic in Taiwan, we are available on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday mornings from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and Wednesday afternoons from 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM.
Please note that online responses are for reference only, and it is essential to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility if necessary.
We hope to have the opportunity to serve you.
Best regards,
Gao Pilin

Reply Date: 2021/01/30

More Info

Understanding the impact of eye cysts, particularly in relation to glaucoma and potential vision loss, is crucial for managing eye health effectively. Based on your description, it seems you have a history of an eye condition that involved a cyst-like structure on the surface of your eye, which was treated by an ophthalmologist. However, the presence of a "sac" or "囊" inside the eye that is reportedly causing pressure on the eyeball raises several important considerations.

Firstly, it's essential to understand what this "囊" refers to. In ophthalmology, cysts or sacs can form due to various reasons, including previous trauma, inflammation, or even as a result of certain eye diseases. If this cyst is indeed pressing against the eye structures, it could potentially contribute to increased intraocular pressure (IOP), which is a significant risk factor for glaucoma. Glaucoma occurs when the optic nerve is damaged, often due to high IOP, leading to vision loss and peripheral vision defects.

The relationship between your eye cyst and your early-stage glaucoma is a valid concern. If the cyst is causing mechanical pressure on the eye, it could exacerbate the existing condition of glaucoma by further increasing the IOP. This could lead to a more rapid progression of vision loss if not addressed. Therefore, it is crucial to monitor the situation closely.

Regarding the necessity of surgery, if your ophthalmologist has recommended a small surgical procedure to address the cyst, it is likely because they believe that the cyst is contributing to your symptoms or the progression of your glaucoma. Surgical intervention could relieve the pressure caused by the cyst, potentially stabilizing your IOP and preventing further damage to your optic nerve. It is essential to discuss the risks and benefits of the surgery with your eye doctor, as they can provide personalized advice based on your specific condition.

As for the concern about whether the "囊" will slowly cause visual field loss, the answer is yes; if the cyst continues to exert pressure on the eye and contribute to elevated IOP, it could lead to progressive damage to the optic nerve, resulting in visual field defects. Regular monitoring of your visual fields and IOP is crucial in managing glaucoma effectively.

In summary, the presence of a cyst or "囊" in your eye could indeed be related to your glaucoma and may necessitate surgical intervention to prevent further complications. It is vital to have open communication with your ophthalmologist about your concerns and treatment options. They can provide you with the best course of action based on a thorough examination and understanding of your eye health history. Regular follow-ups and adherence to prescribed treatments will be key in managing both the cyst and your glaucoma effectively.

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