Morphological alterations of the trabecular meshwork in primary open angle glaucoma

PURPOSE: In the present essay we have compared the morphology and structure of normal trabecular meshworks and glaucomatous trabecular meshworks with the purpose of obtaining information about the etiopathogeny of primary open angle glaucoma. METHODS: We have observed by conventional light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy a total amount of 20 trabecular meshworks from non-glaucomatous patients and 35 trabecular meshworks from surgical pieces of trabeculectomy performed in patients diagnosed of primary open angle glaucoma. RESULTS: We have observed that glaucomatous trabecular meshworks show morphological and structural alterations of their trabecular beams, as their enlarging, collapse, the partial loss of endothelial cells and the existence of plenty of material accumulated on them, like pigment granules and calcium precipitates. CONCLUSIONS: Glaucomatous trabecular meshworks present morphological and structural alterations which can be related to etiopathogeny of primary open angle glaucoma since they modify the normal conditions of drainage of aqueous humour to Schlemm's channel.