Doppler carotid artery studies in asymmetric glaucoma

Doppler carotid artery studies were performed in 12 glaucoma patients with marked asymmetry in bilateral visual field loss. The resistance index and the pulsatility index of the internal carotid artery velocity waveforms were significantly greater on the same side as the eye with the greater visual field loss. The increased resistance to blood flow in the internal carotid artery on the side with advanced field loss might predispose the eye on this side to the effects of raised intraocular pressure by causing a reduction in the perfusion pressure at the optic nerve head. The role of ocular perfusion pressure in the pathogenesis of glaucoma is discussed. More extensive studies are necessary.