Closed-angle glaucoma
Closed-angle glaucoma (CAG), also known as angle-closure glaucoma, is a type of glaucoma that occurs when the flow of aqueous humor (the clear fluid in the eye) is suddenly blocked, leading to a rapid increase in intraocular pressure (IOP). This condition is considered a medical emergency and requires immediate treatment to prevent permanent vision loss.
Causes and Risk Factors[edit | edit source]
Closed-angle glaucoma is caused by a physical blockage of the drainage canals in the eye, which prevents aqueous humor from exiting the eye, thereby increasing IOP. The risk factors for developing CAG include:
- Age: Individuals over the age of 40 are at higher risk.
- Ethnicity: People of Asian and Inuit descent have a higher predisposition.
- Family history: A family history of glaucoma increases the risk.
- Hyperopia: Far-sighted individuals are more prone due to shallower anterior chambers.
- Certain medical conditions: Conditions like cataracts and eye tumors can contribute to the development of CAG.
Symptoms[edit | edit source]
Symptoms of closed-angle glaucoma can be acute or chronic, with acute symptoms being more severe and sudden. They include:
- Severe eye pain
- Blurred vision
- Headache
- Nausea and vomiting
- Sudden visual disturbances
- Halos around lights
- Eye redness
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
Diagnosis of closed-angle glaucoma involves a comprehensive eye examination, including:
- Measurement of intraocular pressure (Tonometry)
- Inspection of the drainage angle (Gonioscopy)
- Assessment of the optic nerve (Ophthalmoscopy)
- Visual field testing
Treatment[edit | edit source]
Treatment for closed-angle glaucoma aims to reduce intraocular pressure and prevent vision loss. Treatment options include:
- Medications: Eye drops or systemic medications to lower IOP.
- Laser therapy: Laser peripheral iridotomy (LPI) creates a small hole in the iris to improve fluid drainage.
- Surgical procedures: In cases where laser therapy is not effective, surgical intervention may be necessary to create a new drainage path.
Prevention[edit | edit source]
While some risk factors for closed-angle glaucoma cannot be changed, regular eye examinations can help detect the condition early and prevent significant vision loss.
See Also[edit | edit source]
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Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD