advertisement
Abstract #18385 Published in IGR 3-3
When to begin glaucoma treatment?
Nordmann JPJournal Français d'Ophtalmologie 2001; 24: 1092-1094
The decision to start glaucoma treatment in a newly diagnosed patient is easy when the disease is clearly identified with typical optic nerve cupping, visual field defects, and elevated intraocular pressure (IOP). However, it is often more complicated, especially in young patients in whom careful a analysis of the fundus and an examination of the nerve fiber layers should be undertaken in order to detect any early signs of glaucoma before any visual field changes have taken place. If glaucoma is present, patients with IOP above 14 mmHg should be treated, since in such cases there is always a 'pressure risk factor'. In case of isolated elevated ocular pressure, in France we usually consider that a pressure above 25 mmHg should be reduced, with a target pressure of at least -20% from baseline. Other factors should also be considered, such as quality of life and cost of treatment. The psychological profile of the patient should also be taken into account, and clear information regarding the risks and potential severity of the disease provided before the onset of treatment. LA: French
Dr J.P. Nordmann, Centre du Glaucome, Hôpital des Quinze-Vingts, 28 rue de Charenton, 75012 Paris, France
Classification:
11.1 General management, indication (Part of: 11 Medical treatment)
