Glaucoma: Clinical Essentials
Ophthalmology High-Yield: Chronic vs. Acute
1. Primary Classifications
| Type | Mechanism | Clinical Note |
|---|---|---|
| POAG | Increased resistance at TM. | Usually asymptomatic until advanced. |
| PACG | Physical closure of the angle. | Painful, acute emergency. |
2. Diagnostic Triad
- Intraocular Pressure (IOP): Often elevated (but normal-tension glaucoma exists).
- Optic Disc Changes: Increased cup-to-disc ratio, rim thinning, notching, and vertical elongation.
- Visual Field Defects: Arcing scotomas, nasal step, and eventually “tunnel vision.”
3. Management Essentials
- Medical Therapy: Prostaglandin analogs (first-line), Beta-blockers, Alpha-agonists, and Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors.
- Surgical: Laser peripheral iridotomy (PACG), Trabeculectomy, and aqueous shunts.
4. NEET PG High-Yield Pearls
- Schaefer Classification: Used for gonioscopic assessment of the angle.
- Glaucoma and Hypermetropia: Small eyes/hypermetropes are at higher risk for PACG due to anatomically shallow anterior chambers.
- Myopia and Glaucoma: Myopes are at a significantly higher risk of developing POAG.
- Resources: For structured question banks and free study resources, you can always visit mymedschool.org.