[Progress in early detection and follow up of glaucoma]

The importance of Hans Goldmann's contributions to clinical tonometry is discussed in detail. One example is the principle of an applanation diameter of 3.06 mm, which was established by him and is still the basis for the various methods of clinical tonometry today. Therefore, further advances in this field can only be concerned with facilitating the application of this principle. An instrument which can be used by both physician and patient is described. By facilitating more frequent tonometric examinations it would ensure much better glaucoma control than is at present possible. A further application of a self-test tonometer of this kind, which is not affected by gravity, is space medicine. It is planned to use the instrument in the German Spacelab D2 mission in 1991.