Classification of GLAUCOMA
Glaucoma is a group of eye disorders characterized by damage to the optic nerve, typically caused by an increase in intraocular pressure (IOP). Glaucoma can be classified into several types based on the underlying cause, the clinical presentation, and the treatment options.
Open-angle Glaucoma
Open-angle glaucoma, also known as primary open-angle glaucoma, is the most common type of glaucoma. It is caused by a dysfunction of the trabecular meshwork, the structure responsible for filtering and draining the aqueous humor out of the eye. In open-angle glaucoma, the trabecular meshwork becomes less effective at filtering the aqueous humor, causing an increase in intraocular pressure. Open-angle glaucoma typically has no symptoms in the early stages and is often discovered during a routine eye examination.
Angle-closure Glaucoma
Angle-closure glaucoma, also known as primary angle-closure glaucoma, is caused by a physical blockage of the angle of the anterior chamber, preventing the drainage of aqueous humor and causing a rapid increase in intraocular pressure. Angle-closure glaucoma can occur suddenly and is considered a medical emergency. Symptoms of angle-closure glaucoma include severe headache, eye pain, nausea, and vomiting.
Secondary Glaucoma
Secondary glaucoma is caused by an underlying condition or disease, such as an injury, infection, or tumor. Secondary glaucoma can occur in individuals of any age, and it can develop in one or both eyes.
Normal-tension Glaucoma
Normal-tension glaucoma is a type of glaucoma in which the intraocular pressure is normal, but the optic nerve is still damaged. This type of glaucoma is considered to be caused by unknown factors, like poor blood flow to the optic nerve. It is more common in people with a family history of the disease, and it is more likely to affect people of Japanese descent.
Congenital Glaucoma
Congenital glaucoma is a rare type of glaucoma that is present at birth or develops in the first year of life. It is caused by a malformation in the drainage structures of the eye.
In summary, glaucoma can be classified into several types based on the underlying cause, the clinical presentation, and the treatment options. Open-angle glaucoma is the most common type, caused by a dysfunction of the trabecular meshwork, angle-closure glaucoma is caused by a physical blockage of the angle of the anterior chamber, Secondary glaucoma is caused by an underlying condition or disease, normal-tension glaucoma is caused by unknown factors and Congenital glaucoma is a rare type of glaucoma that is present at birth or develops in the first year of life.
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