Aqueous cytology may diagnose iris metastasis without biopsy - Scorecard - MDSpire
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Aqueous cytology may diagnose iris metastasis without biopsy

Aqueous humor sampling confirmed iris metastasis in a patient with refractory secondary glaucoma and lung adenocarcinoma, avoiding iris tissue sampling.

  • By

  • Andrea Surnit

  • September 29, 2026

  • 3 min

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Clinical Scorecard: Aqueous cytology may diagnose iris metastasis without biopsy

At a Glance

CategoryDetail
ConditionIris metastasis from lung adenocarcinoma
Key MechanismsAqueous humor cytology identifies atypical glandular epithelial cells indicative of metastatic disease.
Target PopulationPatients with lung adenocarcinoma and suspected iris metastasis.
Care SettingOphthalmology and oncology clinics.

Key Highlights

  • Aqueous humor cytology can diagnose iris metastasis without biopsy.
  • Cytologic findings classified as Class V indicate metastatic adenocarcinoma.
  • Initial treatment for secondary glaucoma included topical medications and acetazolamide.
  • Transscleral cyclophotocoagulation was performed after IOP increase.
  • Negative cytology does not exclude metastatic disease; repeat sampling may be necessary.

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

  • Consider aqueous humor cytology for diagnosing iris metastasis in selected patients.

Management

  • Manage secondary glaucoma with topical medications and surgical interventions as needed.

Monitoring & Follow-up

  • Follow-up for progression of iris tumors and systemic disease.

Risks

  • False-negative results may occur depending on tumor burden and sampling volume.

Patient & Prescribing Data

Patients with lung adenocarcinoma presenting with ocular symptoms.

Combination of medical and surgical management is often required for secondary glaucoma.

Clinical Best Practices

  • Repeat aqueous humor sampling or consider iris biopsy if clinical suspicion remains high.
  • Systemic restaging should be performed in cases of suspected metastasis.

Related Resources & Content

Original Source(s)

Aqueous cytology may diagnose iris metastasis without biopsy

  • by Andrea Surnit

  • September 29, 2026

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