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Primary open angle glaucoma and hypothyroidism: chance or true association?
J T Gillow1, P Shah, E C O'Neill
1Birmingham and Midland Eye Centre, UK.
Eye (London, England)
|January 1, 1997
Summary
This study found the prevalence of hypothyroidism in British patients with primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) was 4%, which is not a significant increase compared to the general population. Therefore, no clinically important association between hypothyroidism and POAG was identified.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- A previous study suggested a link between hypothyroidism and primary open angle glaucoma (POAG).
- Potential mechanisms include mucopolysaccharide deposition and vasculopathy affecting ocular blood flow.
- Improved glaucoma control after hypothyroidism treatment has been reported.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of hypothyroidism in British patients with POAG.
- To determine if there is a clinically significant association between hypothyroidism and POAG in a UK population.
Main Methods:
- 100 consecutive POAG patients in a specialist clinic were surveyed for thyroid dysfunction symptoms.
- Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels were measured in patients not on thyroxine treatment.
- Prevalence data was compared to control groups and local population data.
Main Results:
- The prevalence of overt hypothyroidism in the studied POAG population was 4% (95% CI 1.1-9.4%).
- This prevalence did not show a clinically significant increase compared to the Montreal study's controls or the local population.
- No statistically significant association was found.
Conclusions:
- The study found no evidence of a clinically important association between hypothyroidism and primary open angle glaucoma in the local British population.
- The findings contrast with a previous Canadian study, suggesting geographical or population-specific differences.
- Further research may be needed to fully elucidate any potential relationship.