What does iridodonesis indicate?

Iridodonesis refers to the tremulous or quivering movement of the iris, which occurs when the lens is unstable or has lost its normal position within the eye. This instability is often associated with conditions such as lens luxation or subluxation, where the lens may not be held firmly in place by the zonules (the fibers that attach the lens to the ciliary body). As a result, any movement of the eyeball or changes in intraocular pressure can cause the lens to move, leading to the corresponding movement of the iris.

Recognizing iridodonesis is important in diagnosing ocular conditions that involve lens displacement, as it can help clinicians assess the severity of the situation and determine the appropriate therapeutic approach. In contrast, swelling of the iris, complete lens dislocation, and normal aging changes do not specifically indicate iris movement dynamics, highlighting the distinctive nature of iridodonesis as a clinical sign of lens instability.