Glaucoma is the disturbance in the structure or function of the optic nerve that causes it to atrophy. This usually leads to gradual loss of the visual field over a period of time. The disturbance is usually as a result of increased intraocular pressure although some patients exhibit atrophic changes without having a raised intraocular pressure (Bell). Risk factors for developing glaucoma include a family history of glaucoma, old age and elevated intraocular pressure from any cause (Bell). Previous ocular surgery and ocular or head trauma are also predisposing factors.
Two main types of glaucoma include angle-closure glaucoma and open-angle glaucoma.
In angle closure glaucoma, there is a blockage in the normal drainage canal of ...
