[Modern view on normal-tension glaucoma]

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Neurology

Background:

• Glaucoma is a progressive optic neuropathy causing irreversible vision loss.
• Normal-tension glaucoma (NTG) presents with optic nerve damage and visual field defects despite normal intraocular pressure (IOP).
• Traditional NTG pathophysiology models focusing solely on IOP are being challenged by new research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current understanding of normal-tension glaucoma (NTG) pathogenesis.
• To explore the connection between NTG and vascular, immune factors, and translaminar pressure difference.
• To examine the relationship between glaucoma and cognitive deficits in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases.

Main Methods:

• Review of current scientific literature and diagnostic advancements.
• Analysis of neuroimaging techniques for central nervous system visualization.
• Synthesis of research on multifactorial NTG development mechanisms.

Main Results:

• NTG pathophysiology is increasingly understood to involve factors beyond intraocular pressure.
• Vascular and immune system dysregulation are implicated in NTG pathogenesis.
• NTG may share underlying mechanisms with neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases.

Conclusions:

• NTG pathogenesis is complex, involving multiple systemic and local factors.
• Further research into NTG's multifactorial nature is crucial for developing effective treatments.
• Understanding NTG's links to neurodegenerative diseases may offer new therapeutic avenues.