New glaucoma progression predictors

Lower systolic perfusion pressure, lower systolic blood pressure and cardiovascular disease history are all predictors of glaucoma, according to a study published online ahead of print by Ophthalmology.

Researchers from the Early Manifest Glaucoma Trial (EMGT) examined the progression criteria of patients with early open-angle glaucoma (OAG). A total of 255 patients with OAG were randomized to be treated with argon laser trabeculoplasty plus betaxolol (n=129) or to receive no immediate treatment (n=126). Subjects were examined every three months for up to 11 years in some cases.

The researchers discovered that lower systolic perfusion pressure, lower systolic blood pressure and cardiovascular disease history are all predictors of glaucoma, suggesting a vascular role in glaucoma progression. Another new factor discovered was thinner central corneal thickness (CCT), with results suggesting a preferential CCT effect with higher IOP.