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Abstract #17060 Published in IGR 9-1
Glaucoma: Current and developing concepts for inflammation, pathogenesis and treatment
Kumarasamy NA; Lam FS; Wang AL; Theoharides TCEuropean Journal of Inflammation 2006; 4: 129-137
Glaucoma is a prevalent neurodegenerative disorder of the eye. However, the mechanism leading to the disease is still unclear. Increased intraocular pressure (IOP) and subsequent retinal ganglion cell (RGC) death leading to the loss of visual field characterizes the pathology of primary open angle glaucoma, which is the most common form. Possible factors leading to glaucoma include glutamate-induced neurotoxicity, nitric oxide (NO) based damage, disruption of neurotrophic factor transport and immune-induced neurodestruction. Current treatment options primarily aim at decreasing IOP by utilizing pharmacological agents, laser therapy and surgery. Developing treatments target neuroprotection with vaccines, the inhibition of NO synthesis and apoptosis. Gaining a better understanding of the pathogenesis can aid in the development of new treatment options and, perhaps, even a cure for glaucoma.
Dr. N.A. Kumarasamy, Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Healt, Healt Policy and Management, 50 Haven Avenue, New York, NY 10021, USA. nak2110@columbia.edu
Classification:
11.1 General management, indication (Part of: 11 Medical treatment)
3.10 Immunobiology (Part of: 3 Laboratory methods)
