How to detect progression in glaucoma

Abstract

Detecting glaucoma progression remains one of the most challenging aspects of glaucoma management, since it can be hard to distinguish disease progression from exam variability and changes due to aging. In this review article, we discuss the use of perimetry, confocal scanning laser tomography and optical coherence tomography to detect glaucoma progression, and the techniques available to evaluate change with these modalities. Currently, there is no consensus on the best technique or criteria to detect glaucoma progression, or what amount of change would be clinically meaningful. New techniques have been developed to assess glaucoma progression, which make more comprehensive and complex use of data. They have the potential of detecting progression with better accuracy, with shorter follow-up periods, and generating better prognostics. Further validation of these new techniques is still required, but their incorporation into clinical practice is likely to yield significant benefits.

Keywords: Aging; Confocal scanning laser tomography; Glaucoma; Optic nerve head; Optical coherence tomography; Perimetry; Progression; Rate of change; Retinal nerve fiber layer.