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Glaucoma Is A Progressive Form Of Optic Neuropathy

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Glaucoma is a progressive form of optic neuropathy that is characterised by structural changes to the optic nerve head (ONH) and corresponding patterns of functional visual field (VF) loss. It is a major cause of irreversible blindness in the world.

Currently, the pathogenesis responsible for glaucoma is not well understood. It has been suggested that local ischemia or mechanical damage from a raised intraocular pressure (IOP) resulting in retinal ganglion cell (RGC) loss may have a role in its aetiology. The treatment for glaucoma aims to reduce IOP through therapeutic or surgical means to reduce glaucomatous progression. The first line of treatment involves topical therapy such as eye drops. There are many classes of anti-glaucoma drops with prostaglandin analogues being the most potent ocular hypotensive with a good safety profile.

Before initiating treatment, it is important to consider factors such as the risk of progression and the patient’s suitability to the particular therapy chosen. Once treatment has been initiated, patients must be reviewed regularly to assess the efficacy of the treatment, monitor for adverse reactions, confirm compliance, and to identify signs of progression.

Glaucoma is a form of progressive optic neuropathy that has clinically visible structural damage at the ONH and RNFL that correlates to a functional VF deficit1-4. These glaucomatous structural changes include thinning or notching of the NRR, bayonetting of vessels, loss of RNFL,

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