Glaucoma

In the past what we understood as glaucoma meant increased intraocular pressure, which disturbed the microcirculation of the eye and damaged the optic nerve and could thus lead to blindness. The latest scientific findings have shown that the sole consideration of the eye pressure for diagnosis and treatment of possible harm is insufficient. It is imperative to consider both the general health status and especially the cardiovascular condition of the patient as well.

Observations for diagnosis and treatment now use computerized visual field testing with nerve fiber analysis and laser scanning methods as well as pressure measurements in combination with measurement of the thickness of the cornea (pachymetry). The principle of pressure measurement is based on a flattening of the cornea with a standardized force meaning that with a thin cornea, a lower pressure is measured than with a thick cornea. The pachymetry (corneal thickness) is taken into account in the interpretation.