Certified Ophthalmic Assistant Practice Exam

Prostaglandin drops are known to cause which of the following effects?

1. Decreased intraocular pressure

2. Increased iris pigmentation

3. Increased eye sensitivity

4. Narrowing of the pupils

The correct answer is: Increased iris pigmentation

Prostaglandin drops are commonly used in the management of glaucoma primarily because they effectively reduce intraocular pressure by enhancing the outflow of aqueous humor. However, they also have a notable side effect of increasing iris pigmentation. This increase occurs because prostaglandins stimulate melanocytes in the iris, leading to the darkening of the eye color over time, particularly in individuals with lighter colored eyes. Understanding this side effect is critical as patients using prostaglandin analogs should be informed of potential changes in their appearance. The increased pigmentation is often permanent, and some patients may find this effect desirable while others may not. By recognizing this effect, practitioners can prepare patients for the aesthetic changes that may accompany treatment. The other options presented, while related to ocular health, do not accurately describe the primary effects associated with prostaglandin drops. For instance, while prostaglandin drops are effective in lowering intraocular pressure, the effects on iris pigmentation are particularly noteworthy and well-documented, making it a defining characteristic of this class of medications.