Glaucoma: New Insights Into Pathophysiology and Treatment Options

Abstract

Glaucoma is the second most common cause of irreversible blindness which is a type of optic neuropathy with genetic and environmental predisposition, although the primary risk factor is raised intraocular pressure. This review shall offer a detailed analysis of glaucoma aetiopathogenesis, diagnostic innovation, and novel interventions. The pathophysiology section discusses the causes of IOP(Intraocular Pressure), ON(Optic Nerve) damage, and VF (Visual Field) loss, as well as genetic and environmental risk factors. Primary open angle, angle closure, normal tension, and congenital and secondary glaucoma are described. In diagnosis, the fruits of the review are clinical examination techniques, intraocular pressure measurement, visual field examination, and other equipment such as OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography) and HRT(Heidelberg Retina Tomograph). Systemic medications are discussed alongside intervention options like trabeculectomy, glaucoma drainage devices, and laser therapies entering the management algorithms. The existing and emerging therapeutic modalities, including gene therapy, stem cell therapy, and nanotechnology in drug delivery are also discussed regarding their ability to enhance the therapeutic efficacy. Issues of early diagnosis, patient adherence, and access to medications and treatment are highlighted, as well as the potential for an individualized approach to treatment. The review ends with future directions highlighting the fact that further research and new approaches in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of glaucoma are required to decrease the burden of this disease on the vision health of the world population.