Chronic Glaucoma

Question 1

What causes chronic glaucoma

Answer 1

Canal of schlemm functions inadequately
1. Outward flow is blocked and over time IOP increases
2. Can eventually lead to damage of the optic nerve and reduced vision

Question 2

What does the increasing fluid pressure do to the eye

Answer 2

Increased pressure leads to reduced blood flow in the retina
1. Leads to degeneration of the the retina and optics disc cupping to nerve atrophy and vision loss

Question 3

Wha are the risk factors of chronic glaucoma

Answer 3

First degree of family history

Question 4

What percentage of chronic glaucoma goes undiagnosed

Answer 4

25%

Question 5

What are the signs of chronic glaucoma

Answer 5

Asymptomatic
1. Gradual loss of peripheral vision over years which leads to tunnel vision
2. Persistent dull eye pain
3. Inability to distinguish colors
4. Halos around light

Question 6

To diagnose someone with chronic glaucoma What classifications do they need to meet

Answer 6

2/3
1. Visual field assessment
*+reduced peripheral vision
*central vision okay until later
2. Fundoscopic exam abnormalities
*Optic disc cupping or retinal nerve fiber issues
3. Increased IOP

Question 7

What is the main goal for treating chronic glaucoma

Answer 7

Decrease IOP

Question 8

What is common first line therapy for chronic glaucoma

Answer 8

1. Prostaglandin analog eye drops
   *can use beta-clickers alone or with eye drops

Question 9

What other medications can be used to delay surgery of someone with chronic glaucoma

Answer 9

1. Brimonidine
2. Apraclonidine

Question 10

What is the prognosis of chronic glaucoma

Answer 10

Untreated can lead to complete blindness
1. All persons of 50 should have IOP measurements and optic disc exam every 3-5 years

Question 11

If a person has RF for chronic glaucoma how many times a years should they get their IOP measured

Answer 11

Annually
if IOP is increased get below 16mm hg

Question 12

Can chronic glaucoma be cured?

Answer 12

No
*but can be controlled