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Corticosteroid-induced ocular hypertension in draining molteno single-plate implants
1Ophthalmology Department, Groote Schuur Hospital & University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
Journal of Glaucoma
|November 19, 2009
Summary
Topical corticosteroids can increase intraocular pressure, even after glaucoma drainage surgery. Discontinuing these steroid drugs normalized eye pressure in patients with functioning Molteno implants, suggesting preserved aqueous outflow pathways.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Glaucoma Research
- Ocular Surgery
Background:
- Corticosteroid-induced ocular hypertension is a known complication.
- Glaucoma drainage devices, like Molteno implants, are used to manage intraocular pressure.
- Secondary glaucoma can arise from various ocular conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report on patients with secondary glaucoma experiencing increased intraocular pressure despite a functioning Molteno implant.
- To investigate the effect of topical corticosteroids on intraocular pressure in patients with glaucoma drainage devices.
Main Methods:
- Case report of three patients with complicated secondary glaucoma.
- Monitoring intraocular pressure response to topical corticosteroid use.
- Assessment of Molteno implant function and bleb status.
Main Results:
- Three patients showed increased intraocular pressure (IOP) with topical corticosteroid use.
- IOP normalized upon discontinuation of corticosteroid treatment.
- The Molteno implants remained functional, and blebs were present over the footplates.
Conclusions:
- Topical corticosteroids can elevate IOP in patients with functioning glaucoma drainage implants.
- The trabecular meshwork may retain some aqueous humor drainage capacity even with a Molteno implant.
- Molteno implantation may not fully prevent corticosteroid-induced IOP elevation in susceptible individuals.
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