What is the primary purpose of angle assessment in the anterior segment?

• A. To assess risk of angle-closure glaucoma
• B. To measure macular thickness
• C. To evaluate intraocular lens position
• D. To assess retinal nerve fiber layer

Answer: (A)

Angle assessment in the anterior segment focuses on how open the drainage angle is where the iris meets the cornea. Its main purpose is to determine the risk of angle-closure glaucoma. If the angle is narrow or occludable, the aqueous humor cannot drain efficiently, raising intraocular pressure and risking optic nerve damage. Detecting a narrow angle can guide preventive steps, such as laser peripheral iridotomy, to reduce that risk. The other options relate to parts of the eye outside the anterior chamber: macular thickness involves the retina, intraocular lens position is about post-surgical lens placement, and retinal nerve fiber layer concerns the optic nerve. Therefore, the primary goal of angle assessment is to assess risk of angle-closure glaucoma.