Comparison of Ocular Biometry between Primary Open Angle Glaucoma Patients and Normal subjects

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Ocular Biometry
• Glaucoma Research

Background:

• Primary Open Angle Glaucoma (POAG) is a leading cause of irreversible blindness globally.
• POAG is the most prevalent form of glaucoma in Nepal, with various associated risk factors.
• Understanding ocular biometric differences in POAG is crucial for early detection and management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare ocular biometric parameters between patients diagnosed with POAG and age-matched healthy controls.
• To identify specific biometric markers associated with POAG in the Nepalese population.

Main Methods:

• A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted at Mechi Eye Hospital.
• The study included 137 POAG patients and 75 healthy controls.
• Key ocular parameters measured: Axial Length (AL), Anterior Chamber Depth (ACD), Keratometry (K) value, and Central Corneal Thickness (CCT). Statistical analysis employed the Mann-Whitney U test.

Main Results:

• POAG patients had a statistically significant longer Axial Length (AL) (23.16 ±1.19 mm vs. 22.69 ±0.89 mm, p<0.001).
• Anterior Chamber Depth (ACD) was significantly deeper in the POAG group (3.05 ±0.51 mm vs. 2.86 ±0.46 mm, p<0.01).
• No statistically significant differences were found in Central Corneal Thickness (CCT) or Keratometry (K) value between the groups.

Conclusions:

• Patients with POAG demonstrate significantly longer axial lengths and deeper anterior chamber depths compared to normal individuals.
• These biometric findings contribute to understanding the pathophysiology of POAG.
• The study highlights the importance of AL and ACD measurements in glaucoma diagnosis and risk stratification.