Neuroretinal rim criteria support an ischemic theory for glaucomatous optic neuropathy

A glaucoma is a form of the neurodegenerative disorder that results in progressive loss of visual field. The principal modifying factor in glaucoma is intraocular pressure. Optic disc features and neuroretinal rim criteria are the main features to be followed for the determination of the ischemic burden on the optic disc. This study was aimed to give safe and accessible way for glaucoma patients follow up regarding early detection of disease progression and provide adequate contact with the patients. This cohort prospective study was done in al-Diwaniah city at Al-Qadisiyah province, from January 2016 through April 2018. Clinical examination was carried out at Al-Diwaniyah teaching hospital, ophthalmology unit, and a private clinic. The study included 60 patients with open-angle glaucoma whether primary or secondary (cases of closed-angle had been excluded). The age range was between 45–75 years; the study included 36 females and 24 males, all of them were examined for detection of glaucoma progression. The results revealed that most patients with progressive glaucoma have neuroretinal rim changes which appear to be the outcome of vascular compromise result from high IOP. Neuroretinal rim changes give an idea for glaucoma progression; these changes support an ischemic theory for optic disc damage.