The iridocorneal angle, or drainage angle, is the narrow recess where the peripheral iris meets the back of the cornea. It contains the main outflow route for aqueous humour: the trabecular meshwork leading into the canal of Schlemm. Its width varies between people and narrows with age as the lens enlarges.
| Location | Periphery of the anterior chamber, at the junction of the cornea, sclera, iris and ciliary body |
|---|---|
| Parts |
|
| Nerve Supply | Long ciliary nerves (sensory and autonomic fibres to nearby tissues) |
| Blood Supply | Anterior ciliary arteries; Major arterial circle of the iris |
Provides the main exit route for aqueous humour from the eye and so largely controls intraocular pressure.
Gonioscopy, using a special contact lens, is needed to see the angle and classify it as open or narrow. A narrow angle predisposes to acute angle-closure glaucoma, which can be triggered by pupil dilation in dim light or by some medicines. Laser peripheral iridotomy deepens a narrow angle and prevents closure.
Sudden blockage of the angle by the iris, causing very high eye pressure, a painful red eye, halos, headache and vomiting. It is an emergency that threatens sight.
Tearing of the ciliary body face after blunt trauma, widening the angle. It can lead to glaucoma years later.
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