Uveitis-Glaucoma-Hyphema (UGH Syndrome): An Overview

Uveitis glaucoma hyphema syndrome also known as Ellingson Syndrome is a complication that occurs due to intraocular chafing and rubbing of intraocular lens against uveal tissue in the eye that leads to iris trans illumination defect, micro hyphema (red blood cells in anterior chamber), gross hyphema, pigment dispersion, raised intraocular pressure (glaucoma) and intraocular inflammation of uveal tissue (uveitis). It can present with symptoms such as decrease in vision, redness, pain, and sensitivity to light. Clinical signs include raised intraocular pressure, anterior chamber inflammatory activity (red blood cell and inflammatory cells), cystoid macular oedema and optic nerve cupping if persistent for long term. Symptoms can be controlled with topical medication like steroids and pressure lowering drops but surgical intervention like repositioning, removal and exchange of intraocular lens is definitive surgical treatment.