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Links between obstructive sleep apnea and glaucoma neurodegeneration
Massimo Cesareo1, Clarissa Giannini1, Alessio Martucci1
1Ophthalmology Unit, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy.
Progress in Brain Research
|September 29, 2020
Summary
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSAS) is linked to primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) and normal-tension glaucoma (NTG). Hypoxia from sleep apnea may cause optic nerve damage, even with normal eye pressure, warranting further research.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Sleep Medicine
- Neuroscience
Background:
- A potential link between obstructive sleep apnea (OSAS) and glaucoma, particularly primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) and normal-tension glaucoma (NTG), is gaining scientific attention.
- The increased prevalence of POAG/NTG in OSAS patients and vice versa suggests shared pathogenetic mechanisms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the potential link between obstructive sleep apnea (OSAS) and glaucoma.
- To investigate the pathogenetic mechanisms, including hypoxia, mechanical factors, and obesity, that may connect OSAS with POAG and NTG.
Main Methods:
- Review of scientific literature on OSAS and glaucoma.
- Analysis of diagnostic methods like perimetry, optical coherence tomography (OCT), OCT angiography (OCTA), and electrophysiological exams to detect glaucomatous changes.
Main Results:
- Hypoxia induced by apnea/hypopnea cycles is a primary suspect in altering vascular and neurological systems, affecting optic nerve function.
- Glaucoma-like changes in the optic nerve and retinal nerve fiber layer have been observed in patients with OSAS.
Conclusions:
- The association between OSAS and glaucoma warrants further investigation.
- Stronger scientific evidence is needed to fully elucidate the relationship and underlying mechanisms between OSAS and glaucoma.
Keywords:
GlaucomaHypercapniaHypoxiaIntraocular pressureObesityObstructive sleep apneaOptical coherence tomographyMore Related Videos
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