Abnormalities of microcirculation in glaucoma: facts and hints

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Vascular Biology
• Neuroscience

Background:

• Glaucoma is a leading cause of irreversible blindness.
• Increased intraocular pressure (IOP) is a primary, but not sole, risk factor.
• Vascular risk factors for glaucoma have been historically postulated but are now systematically investigated.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the role of vascular dysregulation as a significant risk factor in glaucoma.
• To investigate microcirculatory disturbances and blood flow regulation in ocular tissues.
• To understand the interplay between ocular and systemic factors in glaucoma pathogenesis.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of recent technical developments in microcirculation and blood flow regulation.
• Analysis of studies investigating vascular dysregulation in glaucoma.
• Examination of impaired autoregulation in optic nerve head and choroidal blood flow.

Main Results:

• Vascular dysregulation, including vasospasm and systemic hypotension, significantly impacts ocular blood flow.
• Impaired autoregulation of blood flow in the optic nerve head and choroid is implicated in glaucoma.
• Glaucoma appears to involve multiple coacting factors, suggesting a systemic disease component.

Conclusions:

• Beyond IOP, vascular dysregulation is a major risk factor for glaucoma.
• Microcirculatory disturbances and impaired blood flow regulation are critical in glaucoma.
• Glaucoma pathogenesis likely involves systemic factors and disease processes.