In an eye without polycoria, the sphincter muscle is a part of the iris that functions to constrict and dilate the pupil. A patient with true polycoria experiences handicapped vision as well as stimulation of the retina in response to bright lights.It is said that the term "true polycoria" is overused, and used correctly when addressing congenital deformations of the iris. Often "true polycoria" is used when it in fact is a case of pseudopolycoria. Pseudopolycoria
Although less rare than true polycoria, pseudopolycoria is still very uncommon. In cases of pseudopolycoria there is a "passive constriction" that differentiates the extra pupil from the true pupil during constriction and dilation. The extra pupil in pseudopolycoria is different than the extra pupil in true polycoria because it shows defects that are independent of the sphincter muscles. Pseudopolycoria is often associated with Seckel syndrome, posterior polymorphous dystrophy, and juvenile glaucoma.Pseudopolycoria consists of splitting of the iris that are not contingent with the sphincter muscles at the root of the iris. Symptoms and diagnosis
When a patient is diagnosed with polycoria, the signs and symptoms shown are associated with ocular and adnexal growth abnormalities. The iris and the pupil become less effective. Signs can be present as a child; however, the patient may be diagnosed later in their life. This condition results in abnormal eye development affecting both eyes or just one.Upon gross examination the patient will typically have excessively long eyelashes. The iris becomes hypoplastic, making abnormally shaped pupils with prominent crypts.
Sjögren syndrome or Sjögrens syndrome (SjS, SS) is a long-term autoimmune disease that affects the bodys moisture-producing (lacrimal and salivary) glands, and often seriously affects other organ systems, such as the lungs, kidneys, and nervous system. Primary symptoms are dryness (dry mouth and dry eyes), pain and fatigue. Other symptoms can include dry skin, vaginal dryness, a chronic cough, numbness in the arms and legs, feeling tired, muscle and joint pains, and thyroid problems. Those affected are also at an increased risk (15%) of lymphoma.While the exact cause is unclear, it is believed to involve a combination of genetics and an environmental trigger such as exposure to a virus or bacterium. It can occur independently of other health problems (primary Sjögrens syndrome) or as a result of another connective tissue disorder (secondary Sjögrens syndrome). Sjögrens syndrome may be associated with other autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or systemic sclerosis. The inflammation that results progressively damages the glands. Diagnosis is by biopsy of moisture-producing glands and blood tests for specific antibodies. On biopsy there are typically lymphocytes within the glands.While Sjögrens syndrome is one of the most common auto-immune diseases, it has no specific and non-invasive diagnostic tests and treatment is directed at managing the persons symptoms. For dry eyes, artificial tears, medications to reduce inflammation, punctal plugs, or surgery to shut the tear ducts may be tried. For a dry mouth, chewing gum (preferably sugar-free), sipping water, or a saliva substitute may be used.