Pediatric Glaucoma 

Glaucoma

An increase in intraocular pressure is called glaucoma.

Anatomical details  in relation to glaucoma.

In children, glaucoma results due to improper development of the angle of the eye. This leads to problems with the drainage of the aqueous out of the eye, causing increased pressure and glaucoma.

Symptoms in the child -

An EUA may be required. Children may not co-operate for detail examination. The doctor may need to anaesthetize the child and check his eye thoroughly while he is asleep. This is Examination Under Anaesthesia or EUA.

Measurement of Intraocular Pressure is done. The angle of the eye is examined with a special type of lens.

Management-

Eye drops are not very helpful as sole treatment, in children.

Surgery-

Success rate with single surgery is not very high. Therefore multiple procedures may be required. Drug instillations may be required inspite of surgery.

Prolonged high pressure in the eye can cause destruction of optic nerve and blindness, therefore early detection is important.

Multiple and prolonged follow-up is required.