Primary Angle-Closure Glaucoma Suspect (Latent): Understanding the Condition and Its Treatment
Primary angle-closure glaucoma suspect (latent) is a condition where the angle between the iris and cornea is narrow, but the intraocular pressure (IOP) is still within the normal range. This condition is also known as "latent" or "subclinical" angle-closure glaucoma. If left untreated, latent angle-closure glaucoma can progress to primary angle-closure glaucoma and lead to blindness.
Symptoms and Causes of Latent Angle-Closure Glaucoma
Symptoms of latent angle-closure glaucoma are usually mild or absent, making it difficult to detect without a comprehensive eye exam. The cause of latent angle-closure glaucoma 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 Latent Angle-Closure Glaucoma
Latent angle-closure glaucoma 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 latent angle-closure glaucoma is to prevent the progression to primary angle-closure glaucoma. 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.
Monitoring
Latent angle-closure glaucoma 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 latent angle-closure glaucoma, early detection and treatment can help prevent the progression to primary angle-closure glaucoma. 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, Primary Angle-Closure Glaucoma Suspect (Latent) is a condition where the angle between the iris and cornea is narrow, but the intraocular pressure is still within the normal range. The main goal of treatment is to prevent the progression to primary angle-closure glaucoma. This may include medications, laser therapy and surgery. Regular monitoring is essential to ensure that the treatment plan is effective and to adjust it
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