Primary open angle glaucoma

Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma
Synonyms	N/A
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Gradual loss of peripheral vision, tunnel vision in advanced stages
Complications	Blindness
Onset	Typically after age 40
Duration	Long-term
Types	N/A
Causes	Increased intraocular pressure, genetic factors
Risks	Age, family history, race
Diagnosis	Tonometry, Ophthalmoscopy, Visual field test
Differential diagnosis	N/A
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Medications, Laser therapy, Surgery
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Variable, depends on treatment adherence
Frequency	Common
Deaths	N/A

Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma (POAG) is a chronic, progressive eye disease characterized by the gradual loss of vision due to damage to the optic nerve. It is the most common form of glaucoma, a group of eye conditions that lead to damage of the optic nerve, often associated with increased pressure in the eye.

Pathophysiology

The primary mechanism of POAG involves the dysfunction of the eye's drainage system, known as the trabecular meshwork. This leads to increased intraocular pressure (IOP), which in turn causes damage to the optic nerve. The optic nerve is responsible for transmitting visual information from the eye to the brain, and damage to this nerve can result in vision loss.

Risk Factors

Several risk factors are associated with the development of POAG:

• Age: The risk increases significantly after the age of 40.
• Genetics: A family history of glaucoma increases the risk.
• Race: African Americans and Hispanics are at higher risk.
• Medical Conditions: Conditions such as diabetes and hypertension may increase the risk.
• Myopia: Individuals with severe nearsightedness are at increased risk.

Symptoms

POAG is often asymptomatic in its early stages. As the disease progresses, patients may experience:

• Gradual loss of peripheral vision, usually in both eyes.
• Tunnel vision in advanced stages.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of POAG involves several tests:

• Tonometry: Measures the pressure inside the eye.
• Ophthalmoscopy: Examines the shape and color of the optic nerve.
• Visual Field Test: Assesses the peripheral vision.
• Gonioscopy: Examines the angle in the eye where the iris meets the cornea.

Treatment

The goal of treatment is to lower intraocular pressure to prevent further optic nerve damage. Treatment options include:

• Medications: Eye drops or oral medications to reduce eye pressure.
• Laser Therapy: Procedures such as laser trabeculoplasty to improve drainage.
• Surgery: Surgical options like trabeculectomy or glaucoma drainage implants for more severe cases.

Prognosis

The prognosis for patients with POAG varies. Early detection and adherence to treatment can significantly slow the progression of the disease and preserve vision. However, if left untreated, POAG can lead to irreversible blindness.

Prevention

While there is no known way to prevent POAG, regular eye examinations can help detect the disease in its early stages. Individuals at high risk should have regular comprehensive eye exams, including measurements of intraocular pressure and optic nerve evaluation.

See Also

• Glaucoma
• Ophthalmology
• Optic nerve

External Links

• [American Academy of Ophthalmology]
• [Glaucoma Research Foundation]