Year: 2009
Type: article
Abstract: The glaucomas are not a single disease entity but result from different mechanisms that eventually lead to loss of retinal ganglion cells. The terminal event in the glaucoma continuum is irreversible visual impairment and blindness. All the resources for the management of glaucoma are directed towards arresting further RNFL (retinal nerve fiber layer) loss so as to prevent further visual deterioration and preserve the quality of life for the rest of the patient’s life span. It is a slowly progressive chronic disease and regular follow-up is necessary to monitor the disease stability. It is also important to have regular follow-up to detect progression in earlier stage that might require escalation of treatment. The objectives of assessment during follow-up visits are: 1. To determine whether glaucoma is stable or progressing 2. If disease is progressing then to identify underlying mechanism for progression and change treatment (management plan) accordingly. Following are the factors we must evaluate during follow-up visit. However we must remember that every individual is unique and management plan needs to be individualized. Progression in glaucoma is assessed by structure (optic disk and RNFL) and function (visual field testing with white on white perimetry) independently or in association. A higher IOP is a risk factor for progression. Structure, function and IOP should be monitored at regular intervals. The follow-up period depends on the stage of the disease and stability.
Authors: Rajul S Parikh, Shefali R Parikh
Language: English
Subfield: Ophthalmology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W2115663554