Have you ever looked in the mirror and noticed something like a white liquid floating inside your eye, in front of the colored part of the eye (the sclera)? It looks like a layer like a drop of milk. It's normal for anyone to be a little scared when they see this. In fact, the eye is a very sensitive organ, so it's reasonable to feel such fear. But before we get scared, let's be aware of this.
What exactly is Hypopyon?
Simply put, a hypopyon is a buildup of white blood cells inside our eye. These collect in a small space at the front of the eye. Specifically, in the anterior chamber, in front of the colored part of the eye (iris) and behind the clear membrane above the eyeball (cornea).
The important thing is that this white fluid you see is not pus . Pus is a collection of dead white blood cells and germs. But the white blood cells in a hypopyon do not contain germs. That's why doctors sometimes call it 'sterile pus.'
Imagine, when there is an infection or some problem somewhere in our body, our immune system responds to it. That is, it sends a large number of white blood cells to fight it. The same thing happens when there is an infection or inflammation inside the eye. So when the number of white blood cells that come in this way increases, the small space they have is not enough, and they come and collect in the front chamber of the eye. That collection is what we see as a white layer of fluid.
Why does this happen? Causes that can lead to a hypopyon
Hypopyon is not a disease, but a symptom. That is, it is a signal that there is another problem inside the eye. The main cause of this is inflammation inside the eye. There can be several reasons for this inflammation.
| Reason | A simple explanation |
|---|---|
| Eye Infections | Infections inside the eye caused by bacteria or fungi. For example, conditions like Endophthalmitis (a serious infection inside the eye) and Keratitis (an infection of the front layer of the eye). |
| Autoimmune Diseases | Diseases in which our body's own immune system attacks healthy cells. Examples: Behçet's disease, and diseases associated with a genetic condition called HLA-B27. |
| Corneal Ulcers | Inflammation can also occur due to injuries to the transparent front layer of the eye (cornea). |
| Other infections | Some sexually transmitted diseases, for example, syphilis, can affect the eyes. |
| Side effects of some medications | Very rarely, this condition can also occur as a side effect of certain medications (e.g. rifabutin). |
Other symptoms that accompany a hypopyon
If you have a hypopyon, you may also experience other symptoms, depending on the cause:
- Blurred vision
- Eye pain
- Difficulty looking at bright light (Photophobia)
- Redness of the eyes
- Eyelid swelling
- Tears flowing from the eyes
What are the treatments for this?
Remember, doctors do not treat Hypopyon, but the underlying condition that caused it. As the condition heals, the white blood cells that have accumulated inside the eye will gradually disappear.
Depending on the cause, your doctor may prescribe the following treatments:
- Antibiotics: If the cause is a bacterial infection, these medications (often as eye drops) are given to kill it.
- Antifungals: These are used if the cause is a fungal infection.
- Corticosteroids: These are powerful medications that control inflammation. They may need to be used for a long time in conditions such as autoimmune diseases.
- Eye surgery: This is a very rare procedure. A doctor will only consider surgery if the hypopyon or its cause is causing permanent damage to the eye or vision.
The most important thing is to take the medicine your doctor prescribes, especially antibiotics, for the full prescribed period. Even if you feel better, if you don't take it for the prescribed number of days, the infection may not be completely cured and may come back.
Can a hypopyon cause other complications?
This doesn't happen most of the time. But if left untreated, these white blood cells can build up inside the eye, causing increased intraocular pressure. If this pressure continues, it can lead to a dangerous condition called glaucoma , which can cause permanent vision loss. That's why it's important to see a doctor as soon as you notice any of these symptoms.
What is the difference between Hypopyon and Hyphema?
Some people may confuse these two conditions. Although both involve a buildup of fluid in the front chamber of the eye, the two are completely different.
| Characteristic | Hypopyon | Hyphema |
|---|---|---|
| What is added? | White Blood Cells | Blood |
| Appearance | A layer of white or yellowish liquid | A layer of red blood |
| Main reason | Eye infection/inflammation | Trauma/Injury to the eye |
When should I see a doctor?
The answer to this is very simple. If you notice any changes in your eyes, especially if something is accumulating inside the eye, see an eye care specialist immediately without delay.
Although this may not be as serious as it seems, it is essential to find the exact cause and seek treatment. Your doctor will perform the necessary tests, find out exactly what the cause is, and provide you with the most appropriate treatment.
Take-Home Message
- Hypopyon is a collection of white blood cells inside the eye. This is not pus.
- This is not a disease, but a sign that there is another problem, such as an infection or inflammation inside the eye.
- If you see a white liquid like this inside your eye, don't panic and stay home, see an ophthalmologist immediately.
- Once the underlying disease is treated, the hypopyon will heal on its own.
- Take the medicine your doctor prescribes exactly for the prescribed period. It is essential for a speedy recovery.
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