Effect of latanoprost on choroidal thickness in patients with newly diagnosed primary open-angle glaucoma

The purpose of this study was to assess the influence of latanoprost on choroidal thickness in patients with newly diagnosed primary open-angle glaucoma using Swept-Source Optical Coherence Tomography (SS-OCT).

The retrospective, non-randomized study comprised 40 newly diagnosed primary open-angle glaucoma patients receiving latanoprost therapy (Group 1). Additionally, 40 age- and sex-matched healthy subjects served as the control group (Group 2). Using SS-OCT, measurements of subfoveal, horizontal temporal, and horizontal nasal quadrants choroidal thickness, as well as intraocular pressure (IOP) and retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness values, were collected at baseline and after 1 month for both groups.

The mean age was 39.8±4.15 years (range: 18-45 years) in group 1 and 41.67±7.95 years (range: 18-45 years) in group 2 (p>0.05). The mean choroidal thickness in the subfoveal area, horizontal temporal quadrant, and horizontal nasal quadrant prior to latanoprost therapy were 263.57±84.23 μm, 233.05±80.08 μm, and 219.52±83.28 μm in the group 1 whereas 278.9±93.88 μm, 243.8±73.37 μm and 209.85±92.92 μm in the group 2. After latanoprost therapy, the mean choroidal thickness in the subfoveal area, horizontal temporal quadrant, and horizontal nasal quadrant changed significantly to 299.77±41.29 μm, 269.9±43.80 μm, and 261.32±45.60 μm in the group 1 (p=0.02, p=0.016, and p=0.012, respectively) (Table 1). However, the mean choroidal thickness in the subfoveal area, horizontal temporal quadrant and horizontal nasal quadrant in group 2 changed not significant and was 279.25±103.37 μm, 246.42±87.07 μm and 203.62±106.74 μm, respectively (p=0.4, p=0.5 and p=0.9, respectively). The mean IOP decreased significantly in group 1 (p=0.000) but did not change significantly in group 2 (p=0.153). There was no difference in RNFL thickness values at baseline and 1 st month in group 1 and group 2 (p>0.05).

Topical latanoprost may increase choroidal thickness. Swept Source-OCT may contribute to our understanding of the actions of latanoprost on choroidal thickness.