Optic disc morphology in primary open-angle glaucoma versus primary angle-closure glaucoma in South India.

Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate the optic disc morphology in primary angle-closure glaucoma (PACG) versus primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) in South Indians. Methods: A total of 60 patients (60 eyes) with PACG and 52 patients (52 eyes) with POAG were included in a cross-sectional observational study. The glaucoma diagnosis was based on a glaucomatous appearance of the optic disc correlating with visual field defects. The glaucoma was graded as early, moderate, or severe, depending upon perimetric loss. All patients underwent an ophthalmic evaluation, including visual field examination and planimetric analysis of 30° stereoscopic color optic disc photographs. Results: The POAG and PACG groups did not differ significantly in a disc or rim area, rim width, and frequencies of disc hemorrhages or rim notches. However, early POAG group (n = 15) had a significantly deeper cup depth (P = 0.01), larger beta zone (P = 0.01), and a higher frequency of localized retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) defects (P = 0.02) than early PACG (n = 20). Conclusion: In the early stage of the disease, POAG compared to PACG may be characterized by deeper disc cupping, a larger beta zone of peripapillary atrophy, and a higher frequency of localized RNFL defects. Such differences in early glaucoma may suggest differences in pathophysiology in POAG and PACG.

Alternative therapy in glaucoma management: is there any role?

Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness worldwide. Various randomized controlled clinical trials have shown that lowering intraocular pressure (IOP) does reduce progression of primary open-angle glaucoma. However, there is lots of interest in nonpharmacological options that includes lifestyle adjustment and alternative and complementary therapy (ACT). At least 5% glaucoma population uses ACT. Various lifestyle activities like exercise and alcohol can reduce IOP by 1 to 2 mm Hg but would have small effect on glaucoma. The psychological stress can increase IOP. Hypothetically and few studies do show neuroprotective effect (or effect on ocular blood flow) of alcohol, Gingko biloba, bilberry, but the current evidence is weak for its routine use. We must also remember the side effects of 'medications' (e.g., marijuana, alcohol) before promoting as remedy for glaucoma. In current armamentarium of glaucoma management, ACT cannot substitute the conventional treatment available to lower IOP.