Chronic Primary Angle-Closure Glaucoma: Understanding the Condition and Its Treatment

Chronic primary angle-closure glaucoma (CPACG) is a type of primary angle-closure glaucoma (PACG) characterized by a continuous or recurrent narrowing of the angle between the iris and cornea, leading to increased intraocular pressure (IOP) and damage to the optic nerve. If left untreated, CPACG can lead to blindness.

Symptoms and Causes of CPACG

Symptoms of CPACG can include eye pain, headache, blurred vision, halos around lights, and visual field loss. The cause of CPACG is related to the anatomy of the eye, specifically a narrow angle between the iris and cornea. This narrow angle can be caused by a variety of factors such as age, hyperopia (farsightedness), and certain types of cataracts.

Diagnosis and Treatment of CPACG

CPACG is typically diagnosed through a comprehensive eye exam, including measuring the IOP, examining the angle of the eye, and examining the optic nerve. Gonioscopy, a procedure that allows the doctor to see the angle of the eye, is also done to confirm the diagnosis.

The main goal of treatment for CPACG is to lower the IOP and protect the optic nerve. This may include medications such as ocular hypotensive agents, which lower the IOP, and laser therapy such as laser peripheral iridotomy (LPI), which creates a small hole in the iris to allow the aqueous humor to flow more freely.

Surgery

In some cases, surgery may be recommended. The most common surgery for CPACG is Trabeculectomy, a procedure that creates a new drainage channel for the aqueous humor to flow out of the eye, lowering the IOP.

Monitoring

CPACG is a chronic condition that requires regular monitoring to ensure that the treatment plan is effective. The patient will need to have regular eye exams to check the IOP, angle of the eye, and visual field. If the treatment is not effective, the treatment plan may need to be adjusted.

Prevention

While there is no known way to prevent CPACG, early detection and treatment can help slow the progression of the disease. It is important to have regular eye exams, especially if you have a family history of glaucoma or other risk factors such as age above 40, hyperopia, or certain types of cataracts.

In conclusion, Chronic Primary Angle-Closure Glaucoma (CPACG) is a type of primary angle-closure glaucoma characterized by a continuous

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