Medical Surgical Nursing Practice Exam 2026 - Free Practice Questions and Study Guide for Nursing Certification

Peripheral anterior synechiae (PAS) refer to adhesions that form between the peripheral iris and the trabecular meshwork or cornea, which can obstruct the normal flow of aqueous humor. This obstruction can lead to a decreased outflow of aqueous humor, subsequently causing an increase in intraocular pressure (IOP). Elevated IOP can result in complications related to glaucoma, making it a significant concern in patients with PAS.

The other potential outcomes listed do not align with the physiological impacts of PAS. Reduced tear production is typically associated with different conditions affecting the lacrimal glands and not directly related to PAS. Decreased lens opacity would imply improved clarity of the lens, which does not result from PAS but rather from surgical interventions like cataract surgery. Greater aqueous humor outflow would counteract the effect of PAS, as the condition typically impairs outflow rather than enhances it. Therefore, the increase in intraocular pressure due to the interruption in the normal aqueous humor circulation is indeed the most accurate outcome related to peripheral anterior synechiae.