Amsler sign explained

Amsler sign
Synonyms:	Amsler–Verrey sign
Purpose:	Diagnosing Fuchs heterochromic iridocyclitis

Amsler sign also known as Amsler–Verrey sign is the name of the diagnostic finding seen in people with Fuchs heterochromic iridocyclitis (FHI). It is described as presence of blood (hyphema) in the aspirated aqueous fluid, in paracentesis of the anterior chamber, and is caused due to iris atrophy usually seen in FHI and exposure of the fragile iris vasculature to the aqueous fluid. The sudden change of pressure in the anterior chamber upon suction induced by the paracentesis, or during a cataract surgery, causes bursting of the fragile superficial iris capillaries resulting in micro-bleeding. This is one clinical diagnostic sign of FHI.^{[1] [2] [3]}

History

This sign is named after the Swiss ophthalmologist Marc Amsler (February 15, 1891 – May 3, 1968).^[4] It is sometimes referred to as Amsler–Verrey sign to acknowledge the contribution of another Swiss ophthalmologist, Florian Verrey (1911–1976).^[5]

Notes and References

1. Amsler-Verrey sign during cataract surgery in Fuchs heterochromic uveitis. Sathish Srinivasan . Douglas Lyall . Christine Kiire . 16 July 2010. BMJ Case Reports. 10.1136/bcr.11.2009.2456. Case Reports. 2010. bcr1120092456. 3038033 . 22767537.
2. Web site: Marc Amsler. mrcophth. 15 December 2010.
3. Ashwin . Pammal T. . Tambe . Katya . Quinlan . Mike . Unusual presentation of Amsler's sign in Fuchs' heterochromic uveitis . Journal of Cataract and Refractive Surgery . Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health) . 32 . 9 . 2006 . 0886-3350 . 10.1016/j.jcrs.2006.03.043 . 1579–1580.
4. Web site: Marc Amsler. Ole Daniel Enersen. Who Named It?. 15 December 2010.
5. Web site: Florian Verrey. Ole Daniel Enersen. Who Named It?. 15 December 2010.