What does hypotony refer to in the context of intraocular pressure?

Hypotony specifically refers to a condition characterized by decreased intraocular pressure (IOP). In the context of veterinary ophthalmology, as well as in human ophthalmology, normal intraocular pressure is typically maintained within a certain range; values significantly below this range indicate hypotony.

This condition can result from various factors, such as the loss of aqueous humor due to surgical interventions, traumatic events, or disease processes that lead to reduced production or excessive outflow of this fluid. Hypotony can have clinical implications, including the potential for retinal detachment, decreased vision, and other complications due to the instability of the eye's internal structure. Therefore, recognizing hypotony as a decrease in intraocular pressure is crucial for diagnosing and managing ocular health effectively.