Certified Ophthalmic Technician Practice Test 2025 – Complete Exam Prep

Open-angle glaucoma is primarily caused by abnormalities in the trabecular meshwork. This structure is crucial in the drainage of aqueous humor from the anterior chamber of the eye into the bloodstream. When the trabecular meshwork becomes obstructed or dysfunctional, it leads to increased intraocular pressure (IOP) since the aqueous humor cannot drain effectively. Elevated IOP is a significant risk factor for optic nerve damage and subsequent vision loss, characteristic of open-angle glaucoma.

The trabecular meshwork's role in maintaining proper IOP highlights its importance in the pathology of this condition. Although the other structures mentioned have their functions in ocular health, they are not the primary sites of abnormality associated with open-angle glaucoma. The iris, for instance, is involved more in angle-closure glaucoma, while the ciliary body produces aqueous humor, and the corneal endothelium has a role in maintaining corneal clarity and hydration. However, it is the trabecular meshwork that is directly linked to the impaired outflow mechanisms leading to the characteristic features of open-angle glaucoma.