Glaucoma: A review

Abstract

Glaucoma is one of the most common ophthalmic conditions encountered in primary and secondary care. The glaucoma is a group of progressive optic neuropathies characterized by degeneration of retinal ganglion cells and resulting changes in the optic nerve head. It is usually associated with an increase in intraocular pressure (IOP) above the normal value—usually estimated at 21 mm Hg. Loss of ganglion cells is related to the level of intraocular pressure, but other factors may also play a role. Reduction of intraocular pressure is the only proven method to treat the disease. Although treatment is usually initiated with ocular hypotensive drops, laser trabeculoplasty and surgery may also be used to slow disease progression.