Home tonometry in childhood glaucoma: clinical indications and physician and parental attitudes

Abstract

Home rebound tonometry is a beneficial tool for the management of childhood glaucoma, yet is not commonly used. In this study, 29 childhood glaucoma patients were recruited for twice daily home intraocular pressure (IOP) monitoring using an Icare rebound tonometer. Home rebound tonometry data prompted and/or validated glaucoma-related surgery in 16 patients (55%) and medication change in 22 patients (76%). According to survey responses, 84% of parents or patients (n = 83) would be interested in home tonometry, and 80% of physicians (n = 48) agreed that home tonometry would improve their ability to manage patients; however, only 14% of physicians currently lend tonometers for this purpose, largely due to financial concerns.