The condition reported here consists of a uniform band of almost transparent membrane extending obliquely across the pupil within the anterior chamber. It occurred after a birth injury and is described because it differs from other membranes reported in the literature as following such an injury. The causation of this condition lies in the splitting of Descemet's membrane due to compression of the globe against the bony wall by forceps. Tears 1 in the membrane are usually due to either compression or distention. They are found most often in young persons and are seen in association with buphthalmos, secondary glaucoma, retinoblastoma with distention, keratoconus, progressive or high myopia and compression or corneal injuries from external force. 1 In the diagnosis this condition must not be confused with those congenital anomalies in which there are associations with the anterior layer of the iris stroma, resulting in membranes which are adherent to