Acute angle closure glaucoma is an Ophthalmological
emergency. Accurate diagnosis based on knowledge of clinical presentation
and a high index of suspicion leads to timely referral and preservation of
vision. Following 'red flags' should be elicited in history and
examination.
A unilateral presentation of a painful red eye, ipsilateral retro-orbital
headache, blurred vision, nausea, vomiting can be seen in a case of angle
closure glaucoma.
Appropriate clinical setting may include the use of anticholinergic drugs
and sympathomimetic drugs used systemically or locally, dim lit room in an
elderly hyperopic patient.
A history of acute/subacute ddecrease in visual acuity,halos around light
sources, shallow anterior chamber, mid dilated pupil in an eye with scleral
congestion & ciliary flush and increased digital tonometery points to
this diagnosis.
Diagnosis should be confirmed with IOP measurement using manual or
appalanation tonometer.
Hyperosmotic agents can be used to decrease the IOP while waiting for
Ophthalmology attendance.
Peripheral Irodotomy by use of a laser is a definitive treatment.
Rapid Response:
Angle closure Glaucoma: 'Red flag' disease
Acute angle closure glaucoma is an Ophthalmological emergency. Accurate diagnosis based on knowledge of clinical presentation and a high index of suspicion leads to timely referral and preservation of vision. Following 'red flags' should be elicited in history and examination.
A unilateral presentation of a painful red eye, ipsilateral retro-orbital headache, blurred vision, nausea, vomiting can be seen in a case of angle closure glaucoma.
Appropriate clinical setting may include the use of anticholinergic drugs and sympathomimetic drugs used systemically or locally, dim lit room in an elderly hyperopic patient.
A history of acute/subacute ddecrease in visual acuity,halos around light sources, shallow anterior chamber, mid dilated pupil in an eye with scleral congestion & ciliary flush and increased digital tonometery points to this diagnosis.
Diagnosis should be confirmed with IOP measurement using manual or appalanation tonometer. Hyperosmotic agents can be used to decrease the IOP while waiting for Ophthalmology attendance. Peripheral Irodotomy by use of a laser is a definitive treatment.
Competing interests: None declared
Competing interests: No competing interests