Early diagnosis and misdiagnosis of Glaucoma

Abstract

Aim: To recognize and draw a line between glaucomatous and non glaucomatous patients at very early stage. Objects: Such silent dangerous ocular problem must be recognized and treated at very initial stage to avoid subsequent complications. Diagnosis: History and all the parameters including intraocular pressure, vision, visual fields and fundus examination were evaluated for diagnosis. Method of study: The study was done at General Hospital and Services Hospital Lahore from 1987 to early 1991. All the patients over the age of 40 year whether coming for first time or already on antiglaucoma treatment were evaluated thoroughly. Patients were examined by senior colleagues also. Results: Total 180 patients were included in study, 120 males 60 females. They were divided into four groups. Group I and II were diagnosed early and included 120 patients with no complications. Group-III and IV were misdiagnosed and included 60 patients. Discussion Until and unless, special care is taken to focus on the diagnosis, it is usually missed with many complications. It is only the casual behaviour of treating physician who considers the patient`s complaint lightly and examines them superficially. Conclusion: Although misdiagnosed cases are relatively less than truly misdiagnosed cases of glaucoma yet they form an important fraction of patients who may go blind within coming years. It is therefore necessary to diagnose such patients at very early stage. The surgeon should take special interest to diagnose such patients. One should not hesitate to consult senior colleagues in doubtful cases. Proper counseling for non cooperative patients is very necessary.