Treatment Considerations for Early Primary Open Angle Glaucoma in Active-Duty Military
Treatment Considerations for Early Primary Open Angle Glaucoma in Active-Duty Military
Ridwam Carim-Sanni, OD,Danielle Kalberer, OD, MBA
TLDR
A shift from the traditional pharmacological treatment as the first line approach to laser trabeculoplasty in high-risk personnel in the active-duty component is suggested.
Abstract
Background: Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness in the United States. The tools available to treat glaucoma via intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction include pharmacological therapy or surgical intervention.
Case Report: This case study explores these tools in the context of glaucoma in active-duty military personnel. It involves an active-duty army patient diagnosed with early Primary Open Angle Glaucoma (POAG) who was initially prescribed IOP-lowering medication. Barriers in treatment compliance occurred while the patient was deployed that led to significant glaucomatous changes detected when the patient returned stateside.
Conclusion: This report suggests a shift from the traditional pharmacological treatment as the first line approach to laser trabeculoplasty in high-risk personnel in the active-duty component.