Relationship between baring of circumlinear vessels of the optic disc and glaucomatous visual field loss

Stereo disc photographs of the eyes of 232 patients with normal or elevated intraocular pressure were reviewed to assess the value of baring of circumlinear vessels of the optic nerve head as a sign of glaucomatous damage. Baring and the presence of glaucomatous visual field defects were significantly correlated, as were this sign and consistent elevation of the intraocular pressure in patients without a visual field defect. Baring was absent in 35% of the eyes with circumlinear vessels and known glaucomatous visual field defects. However, it was present in only 6% of the eyes with normal pressure, a normal visual field and circumlinear vessels. Therefore, this sign should lead to further evaluation.