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Updated: Jun 24, 2026
07:11
Assessing Early Stage Open-Angle Glaucoma in Patients by Isolated-Check Visual Evoked Potential
Published on: May 25, 2020
Primary open-angle glaucoma
Nancy C Sharts-Hopko1, Catherine Glynn-Milley
1Villanova University College of Nursing, Pennsylvania, USA.
The American Journal of Nursing
|March 21, 2009
Summary
Primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) is the most common glaucoma, affecting millions. Early stages are asymptomatic, leading to vision loss if untreated, highlighting the need for comprehensive eye exams.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Public Health
Background:
- Primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) is the most prevalent form of glaucoma.
- Affects over 2 million Americans, with many undiagnosed due to asymptomatic early stages.
- Gradual, progressive visual field reduction can lead to irreversible blindness if left untreated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the current understanding of Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma.
- To highlight the diagnostic challenges and treatment goals for POAG.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on POAG prevalence, risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment.
- Emphasis on the asymptomatic nature and progressive vision loss associated with POAG.
- Discussion of the role of intraocular pressure and its limitations as a sole indicator.
Main Results:
- POAG affects a significant portion of the population, often without early symptoms.
- Elevated intraocular pressure is a key factor, but not universally present in POAG patients.
- No single diagnostic test exists; comprehensive eye evaluations are crucial for screening and diagnosis.
Conclusions:
- Early detection and intervention are critical for managing POAG and preventing vision loss.
- Treatment strategies focus on delaying disease onset, slowing progression, and preserving remaining vision.
- Ongoing comprehensive eye evaluations are essential for individuals at risk and for the general population to detect POAG early.
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