The structure–function relationship in glaucoma: Implications for disease detection
3 August 2009
Volume 10, Issue 3
80-90% of diagnosed POAG cases in the UK are initially detected during routine eye examination.
Introduction
Primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) is an age-related optic neuropathy characterised by the death of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and irreversible visual field loss. The disease is commonly progressive, and is often, but not always, associated with raised intraocular pressure.
The precise mechanism of damage in glaucoma is poorly understood with several competing published theories (Fechtner and Weinreb 1994); however generally all theories agree that there is some physical or biochemical event which takes place at the optic nerve head, damaging RGC axons. The RGC axons then degrade along their length within the retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL), ultimately leading to death of the RGC by apoptosis (Quigley 1998).
Sign in to view the article
Not a member? Start enjoying the benefits of College membership today. Take a look at what the College can offer you and view our membership categories and rates.
Related further reading
New NICE guidance states that selective laser trabeculoplasty rather than eye drops should be a first-line treatment for glaucoma. Kim Thomas asks what this means for optometrists – and their patients.
The clinical figures that count.
Case study: Specialist optometrist Andrew J Morgan FCOptom discusses a case of ocular ischaemic syndrome and its differential diagnoses, central retinal vein occlusion and diabetic retinopathy.