Characterized by a sudden increase in intraocular pressure, acute angle-closure glaucoma can lead to permanent vision loss if not treated promptly.
In this COP9 article, we will explore the symptoms, treatment options, and preventative measures for this eye condition.
Acute angle-closure glaucoma is a serious eye condition that results from a rapid increase in intraocular pressure, often caused by an obstruction in the aqueous humor drainage system.
Unlike chronic open-angle glaucoma, which develops gradually, acute angle-closure glaucoma requires immediate medical intervention due to its acute nature.
This type of glaucoma is characterized by the sudden closure of the evacuation angle between the cornea and the iris, which leads to a sudden increase in eye pressure, measured in mmHg.
This increase can cause irreversible damage to the nerve fibers of the optic nerve, leading to loss of vision, particularly peripheral vision.
Glaucoma is one of the specialties of our ophthalmic surgeon Dr. Stéphanie Zwillinger, do not hesitate to leave us a comment if you have a question, or meet her in her multidisciplinary COP9 practice in Paris.
Acute angle-closure glaucoma can occur following a family history of glaucoma or the presence of other risk factors such as myopia or ocular hypertension.
The population at risk often includes elderly people, especially those with a history of primary glaucoma.
This condition can also be acute in situations where environmental circumstances, such as dim lighting, trigger pupillary dilation that exacerbates angle closure.
Symptoms of acute angle-closure glaucoma can appear suddenly and typically include:
severe eye pain;
blurred vision or halos around lights;
red eyes;
nausea and vomiting;
decreased vision.
Patients may also have difficulty seeing both near and far. The ophthalmologist may observe optic disc deformation and corneal edema during the examination, indicating high eye pressure.
For the treatment of acute angle-closure glaucoma, medical (eye drops) and surgical interventions are often necessary.
In some cases, laser treatments may be performed to allow for better drainage of the aqueous humor by creating a new drainage pathway, while relieving tension inside the eye.
Filtration surgery may also be offered to create a new drainage pathway and prevent recurrence of ocular hypertension.
Prompt detection and treatment of acute angle-closure glaucoma is crucial because delay can lead to permanent damage, including blindness.
It is essential for those at risk to have regular checkups with an ophthalmologist, who can measure eye pressure and assess the angle of escape, as well as monitor visual acuity and examine optic nerve damage.
Early diagnosis and appropriate management can prevent serious complications of this type of glaucoma.
Although acute angle-closure glaucoma cannot be completely prevented, there are steps that can help reduce the risk of an acute attack, including:
getting regular eye exams;
avoiding known triggers such as pupil dilators;
knowing your family history.
Le glaucome aigu à angle fermé est une condition oculaire sérieuse qui nécessite une attention médicale immédiate.
En reconnaissant les symptômes précoces, en recherchant un traitement rapide et en prenant des mesures préventives, il est possible de minimiser les dommages et de préserver la vision.
Si vous présentez des symptômes de glaucome aigu à angle fermé, consultez immédiatement un ophtalmologiste pour un traitement approprié.
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