Glaucoma
Classifications Of Glaucoma
There are two different classes of glaucoma: open-angle and angle-closure. Open-angle, or chronic, glaucoma accounts for 80 to 85% of all cases and is due to an obstruction in the drainage system of the eye. Angle-closure glaucoma is a much rarer but very severe, acute form of the disease, since it can cause blindness in 24 to 48 hours if not treated. It results from poor access to the drainage system in the eye and is referred to as angle-closure because the angle formed by the cornea and iris becomes greatly reduced.
 |
|||
 |
 |
 |
 |
1. Open-angle glaucoma
- Primary
Chronic or primary open-angle glaucoma is the most common of adult glaucomas. People with this type of glaucoma often do not show any symptoms and only detect their glaucoma through a routine eye exam. Its exact cause is unknown but is believed to be linked to a blockage of the outflow of fluid (aqueous humor) from the trabecular meshwork.
-
Secondary
Glaucoma is classified as secondary when the condition is attributed to another disorder or condition affecting the structure or function of the eye. Secondary open-angle glaucoma can be initiated by the presence of swelling or a growth in the eye. For example, persons with mature cataracts or persons undergoing long-term steroid therapy may develop secondary open-angle glaucoma.
2. Angle-closure glaucoma
- Primary
This type of glaucoma occurs when the iris blocks the outflow of fluid through the trabecular meshwork because of a structural abnormality in the eye. A sudden rise in intraocular pressure occurs, with dilation of the pupil. This causes severe pain in the eye and face, as well as other symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, colored halos around lights, and loss of vision.
-
Secondary
Secondary angle-closure glaucoma can occur when the ciliary body or lens becomes swollen and pushes the iris against the trabecular meshwork. This type of glaucoma can occur in patients with diabetic retinopathy, for example.
View the eye drop tracking calendar 2006
