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Glaucoma in Hansen's disease
R C Walton1, S F Ball, V C Joffrion
1Department of Ophthalmology, Ochsner Clinic, New Orleans, Louisiana.
The British Journal of Ophthalmology
|May 1, 1991
Summary
Glaucoma is an uncommon complication of Hansen's disease (leprosy). This study found 10% of leprosy patients had glaucoma, often linked to uveitis, highlighting the need for regular eye exams.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Glaucoma is a rare complication of Hansen's disease (leprosy).
- Understanding glaucoma prevalence in leprosy patients is crucial for early detection and management.
- Chronic inflammation associated with Hansen's disease may contribute to secondary glaucoma.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence and characteristics of glaucoma in a large institutionalized leprosy population.
- To investigate the association between Hansen's disease, its treatments, and the development of glaucoma.
- To identify risk factors and recommend screening protocols for glaucoma in leprosy patients.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive ophthalmic examination was performed on 193 resident patients at the Gillis W Long Hansen's Disease Center.
- Patient records were reviewed, including treatment history (dapsone, clofazimine).
- Glaucoma was diagnosed based on intraocular pressure (IOP) ≥ 22 mm Hg and characteristic optic nerve pathology.
Main Results:
- A total of 19 patients (10%) were diagnosed with glaucoma.
- Glaucoma secondary to uveitis was observed in 11 of the affected patients.
- The findings suggest a link between chronic inflammation in Hansen's disease and secondary glaucoma.
Conclusions:
- Hansen's disease, even when treated, may lead to secondary glaucoma due to chronic inflammation.
- Regular ophthalmic examinations, including slit-lamp biomicroscopy and IOP measurement, are recommended for all Hansen's disease patients.
- Early detection of iridocyclitis and glaucoma is essential for preserving vision in this population.