Acute angle-closure (narrow-angle) glaucoma
Definition
Acute angle-closure (narrow-angle) glaucoma is a type of glaucoma where the iris blocks the drainage angle in the eye, leading to a rapid increase in intraocular pressure. This condition is an ocular emergency requiring immediate treatment to prevent vision loss.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
- Symptoms include sudden eye pain, headache, nausea, and blurred vision.
- First-line treatment often includes medications like acetazolamide to reduce intraocular pressure.
- Laser therapy or surgical intervention may be necessary if medications are insufficient.
- Risk factors include hyperopia (farsightedness), Asian descent, and increasing age.
- Untreated acute angle-closure glaucoma can lead to permanent vision loss within a few hours.
Review Questions
- What are common symptoms of acute angle-closure glaucoma?
- Which medications are typically first-line treatments for reducing intraocular pressure in acute angle-closure glaucoma?
- Why is immediate medical intervention critical in cases of acute angle-closure glaucoma?
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Related terms
Open-Angle Glaucoma: A chronic form of glaucoma where the drainage angle remains open but is partially blocked, causing gradual loss of vision.
Intraocular Pressure (IOP): The fluid pressure inside the eye; elevated levels can lead to glaucomatous damage.
Acetazolamide: A medication used to decrease intraocular pressure by reducing aqueous humor production.
