What is hyphema?

Hyphema is specifically defined as bleeding that occurs in the anterior chamber of the eye, which is the fluid-filled space between the cornea and the iris. This condition can arise due to various causes, including trauma, certain ocular diseases, or as a complication of eye surgery. The presence of blood in this space can lead to a range of visual symptoms, including blurry vision, pain, and increased intraocular pressure, and may require immediate medical evaluation and treatment to prevent further complications.

Understanding this condition helps highlight its clinical significance, as bleeds in the anterior chamber can indicate underlying trauma or ocular pathology. Management may involve monitoring, protective eye wear, medications, or surgical intervention, depending on the severity of the hyphema.

Other options describe conditions or problems but do not accurately define hyphema. Accumulation of fluid behind the eye refers to conditions like choroidal effusion, retinal detachment pertains to the separation of the retina from its underlying layer, and increased intraocular pressure is a separate issue, often associated with glaucoma.