Advancement in Understanding Glaucoma: A Comprehensive Review

• Published in: Curēus (Palo Alto, CA) Vol. 15; no. 9; p. e46254
• Main Authors: Saifi, Azeem I, Nagrale, Prachee, Ansari, Khizer K, Saifi, Iram, Chaurasia, Sharad
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Palo Alto Cureus Inc 30.09.2023; Cureus
• Subjects: Age; Diabetes; Disease; Family medical history; Frailty; Gender; Genetics; Glaucoma; Hypertension; Males; Migraine; Ophthalmology; Patient assessment; Risk factors; Sleep apnea; Therapeutics; Womens health
• ISSN: 2168-8184; 2168-8184
• DOI: 10.7759/cureus.46254

Glaucoma, a silent thief of sight, remains a significant cause of irreversible blindness due to a substantial number of undiagnosed and untreated cases. To combat this insidious disease effectively, a multifaceted approach is imperative. Early detection is paramount in the battle against glaucoma. Patient history, including family history, plays a pivotal role in identifying those at risk. A comprehensive understanding of a patient's genetic predisposition can significantly enhance the accuracy of diagnosis and detection of suspicious cases. Treatment options include prescription eye drops, oral medicines, laser treatment, surgery, or a combination of approaches. Trabeculectomy involves the surgical creation of an aqueous humor drainage channel, while laser trabeculoplasty enhances aqueous outflow by modifying the trabecular meshwork. However, these procedures pose certain risks and complications. Exploration of alternative treatments with lower risks is underway. These innovative approaches hold promise in reducing the burdens associated with conventional treatments such as trabeculectomy. However, the effectiveness of these alternatives in the long term remains a subject of ongoing research. Neuroprotective drugs have also been in development to halt the progression of glaucoma. However, their success remains uncertain due to challenges, such as a lack of understanding of the underlying mechanisms, scarcity of suitable drugs, and regulatory hurdles in gaining approval. In essence, the overarching goal of glaucoma therapy is to reduce intraocular pressure through various means - medications, laser procedures, or innovative methods. The aim is to slow down the disease's progression, thereby preserving vision and improving the patient's quality of life. In conclusion, addressing the challenge of glaucoma requires a comprehensive approach encompassing early detection, innovative treatments, and ongoing research into potential cures. Only through concerted efforts can we hope to reduce the impact of this sight-stealing disease on individuals and society as a whole.