Retina-Vitreous
2014 , Vol 22 , Num 0
Medical Therapy in Diabetic Patiens with Open Angle Glaucoma
Ankara Training and Research Hospital, Eye Clinic, Ankara/TURKEY
Glaucoma is the most common cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. The visual field loss in glaucoma caused by loss of retinal nerve cells can be worsened by nerve cell apoptosis, which is increased in diabetic patients. In the medical management of glaucoma in patients with diabetes, several factors must be considered. Beta blockers can alter and slow the subsequent glucose release, and mask the sympathetic response to hypoglycemia. Adrenergic agonists can decrease the effect of insulin in diabetics and may stimulate hyperglycemia. Treatment with systemic carbonic anhydrase inhibitors can result in excessive excretion of bicarbonate ion in the kidneys, accompanied by loss of sodium and potassium. The resultant hypokalemia may increase blood sugar in diabetic patients.
Keywords :
Open angle glaucoma. medical therapy, diabetes mellitus