[Significance of Helicobacter pylori Diagnostic in Glaucoma]

Glaucoma is one of the most common causes for blindness worldwide. Even if some risk factors for this disease are known, like increased intraocular pressure or increased age, its pathomechanism is still not fully understood. Multiple studies recently analyzed the role of a Helicobacter pylori infection in the glaucoma pathogenesis. Several studies showed a correlation, while others did not come to this conclusion. In summary, it is very likely that a Helicobacter pylori infection coincides with an increased risk for a primary open-angle or normal-tension glaucoma. Still, larger studies, with strict inclusion and exclusion criteria, as well as age-matched control groups, are needed to find out if a Helicobacter pylori infection really leads to a higher risk for glaucoma.