Latanoprost is effective in reducing high intraocular pressure associated with Graves' ophthalmopathy

To assess the efficacy and tolerability of latanoprost in the treatment of glaucoma and ocular hypertension associated with Graves' ophthalmopathy. Prospective interventional case series.

28 patients (19 females and 9 males) aged from 31 to 68 (mean age 45.5 +/- 5.6), presenting with diagnosis of Graves' ophthalmopathy and intraocular pressure equal to 25.0 mmHg or more. 18 Patients presented with inflammatory stage of Graves' ophthalmopathy. 22 patients were within the first two years from the onset of symptoms of Graves' ophthalmopathy. 6 patients had exophthalmos and history of active Graves' ophthalmopathy. Intraocular pressure was measured before treatment, and at two, four and six weeks of treatment with latanoprost at 9 am. Ocular symptoms and signs were noted before and after the treatment period.

The mean baseline intraocular pressure was 26.6 +/- 2.5 mmHg, ranging from 25.0 mmHg to 42 mmHg. In two weeks of treatment, the mean intraocular pressure was 18.6 +/- 2.3 mmHg (min 12.0 mmHg, max 27.0 mmHg). At 4 weeks mean intraocular pressure was 18.4 +/- 2.2 mmHg (min 11.0 mmHg, max 28.0 mmHg). At 6 weeks mean intraocular pressure was 18.7 +/- 1.9 mmHg (ranging from 11 mmHg to 25.0 mmHg). 3 patients experienced mild side effects.

Latanoprost is effective and well tolerated in the treatment of increased intraocular pressure associated with Graves' ophthalmopathy.