Unusual course and long-term follow-up in malignant glaucoma

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Glaucoma Research
• Surgical Complications

Background:

• Postoperative malignant glaucoma is a rare but serious complication after ocular surgery.
• Early diagnosis and management are crucial to prevent vision loss.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report on the long-term management of three patients with classical postoperative malignant glaucoma.
• To evaluate the efficacy of medical management in preventing recurrence and preserving visual function.

Main Methods:

• Case series of three patients diagnosed with malignant glaucoma postoperatively.
• Management involved medical therapy including atropine, miotics, and acetazolamide.
• Long-term follow-up to assess intraocular pressure, visual acuity, and visual fields.

Main Results:

• Two patients required miotics and acetazolamide to control intraocular pressure after initial treatment failure.
• One patient was managed with continued atropine drops.
• All patients maintained normal intraocular pressure, visual acuity, and visual fields with ongoing medical therapy.

Conclusions:

• Medical management, including miotics and acetazolamide, can be effective in controlling intraocular pressure in malignant glaucoma.
• Long-term medical therapy can preserve visual function in patients who refuse prophylactic surgery.
• Careful monitoring and individualized treatment are essential for managing this condition.