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Optic disc hemorrhages and progression of glaucoma
1Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA.
Ophthalmology
|July 1, 1996
Summary
Optic disc hemorrhages in patients with glaucoma or ocular hypertension frequently lead to progressive optic nerve head and visual field changes. These findings highlight the significance of monitoring patients closely after such events.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Glaucoma Research
- Neuro-ophthalmology
Background:
- Optic disc hemorrhage is a known complication in glaucoma and ocular hypertension.
- Understanding the long-term consequences of disc hemorrhage is crucial for patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the progression of optic nerve head and visual field damage following optic disc hemorrhage in patients with glaucoma and ocular hypertension.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective chart review of 91 patients with 121 disc hemorrhages.
- Mean follow-up of 41.9 months.
- Comparison of visual field and optic nerve head changes with control eyes.
Main Results:
- 63% of eyes with disc hemorrhage showed progressive visual field changes versus 24% of controls (P < 0.0005).
- 79% of eyes with disc hemorrhage showed progressive optic nerve head changes versus 22% of controls (P < 0.0005).
- Progression was significant across open-angle glaucoma, low-tension glaucoma, and ocular hypertension groups.
Conclusions:
- Optic disc hemorrhages in glaucoma and ocular hypertension are often linked to ongoing optic nerve damage and visual field loss.
- These events indicate a higher risk of disease progression.
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