Acute angle-closure (narrow-angle) glaucoma

Definition

Acute angle-closure (narrow-angle) glaucoma is a type of glaucoma where the iris blocks the drainage angle in the eye, leading to a rapid increase in intraocular pressure. This condition is an ocular emergency requiring immediate treatment to prevent vision loss.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Symptoms include sudden eye pain, headache, nausea, and blurred vision.
2. First-line treatment often includes medications like acetazolamide to reduce intraocular pressure.
3. Laser therapy or surgical intervention may be necessary if medications are insufficient.
4. Risk factors include hyperopia (farsightedness), Asian descent, and increasing age.
5. Untreated acute angle-closure glaucoma can lead to permanent vision loss within a few hours.

Review Questions

• What are common symptoms of acute angle-closure glaucoma?
• Which medications are typically first-line treatments for reducing intraocular pressure in acute angle-closure glaucoma?
• Why is immediate medical intervention critical in cases of acute angle-closure glaucoma?

Related terms

Open-Angle Glaucoma: A chronic form of glaucoma where the drainage angle remains open but is partially blocked, causing gradual loss of vision.

Intraocular Pressure (IOP): The fluid pressure inside the eye; elevated levels can lead to glaucomatous damage.

Acetazolamide: A medication used to decrease intraocular pressure by reducing aqueous humor production.