Persistent hyperplastic vitreous associated with anterior rupture of the lens capsule.

Abstract

Persistent hyperplastic vitreous (PHV) formerly termed tunica vasculosa lentis or fetal fibrovascular sheath of the refers to the persistence of the fibrovascular tunic of the lens and part of the hyaloid vascular system. Both of these elements are formed from the primary vitreous and their simultaneous persistence is therefore to be expected. If there are remains of the tunica vasculosa lentis, one usually finds remnants of the hyaloid vessels and vice versa. However, either the vascular or fibrous element usually predominates. The following discussion pertains to the cases in which fibrous tissue remains are outstanding. Clinically, persistent hyperplastic primary vitreous is manifested by a white pupil (leukokoria). Such eyes are usually removed because of suspected retinoblastoma, but there are distinguishing clinical characteristics. Persistent hyperplastic vitreous is usually unilateral and occurs in a microphthalmic eye. Occasionally it is seen in a normal size globe, and if complicated by