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Open-Angle Glaucoma

Chronic optic neuropathy with elevated intraocular pressure and progressive visual field loss.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Göz Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Open-Angle Glaucoma?

Open-angle glaucoma (primary open-angle glaucoma, POAG) is the most common form of glaucoma worldwide and is characterised by an open iridocorneal angle on gonioscopy combined with reduced aqueous outflow through the trabecular meshwork.

It produces elevation of intraocular pressure, progressive damage to the retinal nerve fibre layer and optic nerve head (cupping), and a characteristic pattern of arcuate or paracentral visual field defects; many patients remain asymptomatic until late-stage disease.

Diagnosis combines tonometry, gonioscopy, optical coherence tomography (OCT) of the optic nerve, and visual field testing; goal is to lower IOP to a target sufficient to halt progression using topical drops, selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT), MIGS or filtering surgery.

Symptoms

Asymptomatic in early disease
Gradual peripheral visual field loss
Tunnel vision in advanced disease
Difficulty with night vision and contrast
Bumping into objects in peripheral field
Halos around lights (rare in POAG)
End-stage central vision loss

Risk Factors

Age over 40 years
Family history of glaucoma
African or Hispanic ancestry
High myopia and thin central cornea
Diabetes mellitus and hypertension
Long-term corticosteroid use
History of ocular trauma or surgery

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Family history with no eye examination yet
  • Peripheral vision loss noticed at home
  • Sudden vision change or pain
  • Ocular hypertension on routine examination

Treatment Methods

01
Tonometry, gonioscopy, OCT and visual field testing
02
Prostaglandin analogue drops as first-line therapy
03
Beta-blocker, alpha-agonist or carbonic anhydrase inhibitor drops
04
Selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) as first-line option
05
Minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS)
06
Trabeculectomy or tube shunt for refractory cases
07
Lifelong follow-up every 3-12 months

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Göz Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Göz Hastalıkları Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.