Traumatic Hyphema

A traumatic hyphema is a hemorrhage or blood clot that occurs in the anterior chamber following blunt force trauma. Spontaneous hyphema can occur in individuals with sickle cell trait and/or disease, genetic/hereditary coagulopathies, or from use of anticoagulants. With detailed and prompt evaluation, management of a traumatic hyphema can take place with the use of topical steroids, cycloplegics, and intraocular pressure (IOP)-lowering drops. In severe cases where IOP is poorly managed and/or vision is threatened, surgical intervention may be indicated. Following resolution of a traumatic hyphema, the patient is at risk for developing pupillary block, angle recession, and unilateral glaucoma thus careful long-term monitoring of these patients is suggested. This case explores a presentation of a traumatic hyphema in a teenager and delves deeper into management options.