Abstract

Glaucoma is a progressive and irreversible damage to the optic nerve with a typical optic disc appearance (pallor, enlargement and cupping) and a specific pattern of sensitivity loss apparent on visual field testing. It develops in eyes with abnormal intraocular pressure dynamics. Although glaucoma is not curable, drug or surgical treatment can relieve the elevated intraocular pressure and slow down the progress of the optic nerve damage; the existing damage, however, cannot be reversed nor vision restored.

© 1986 Optical Society of America