Pediatric Glaucoma—From Screening, Early Detection to Management

Abstract

Pediatric glaucoma (PG) covers a rare and heterogeneous group of diseases with variable causes and presentations. Delayed diagnosis of PG could lead to blindness, bringing emotional and psychological burdens to patients’ caregivers. Recent genetic studies identified novel causative genes, which may provide new insight into the etiology of PG. More effective screening strategies could be beneficial for timely diagnosis and treatment. New findings on clinical characteristics and the latest examination instruments have provided additional evidence for diagnosing PG. In addition to IOP-lowering therapy, managing concomitant amblyopia and other associated ocular pathologies is essential to achieve a better visual outcome. Surgical treatment is usually required although medication is often used before surgery. These include angle surgeries, filtering surgeries, minimally invasive glaucoma surgeries, cyclophotocoagulation, and deep sclerectomy. Several advanced surgical therapies have been developed to increase success rates and decrease postoperative complications. Here, we review the classification and diagnosis, etiology, screening, clinical characteristics, examinations, and management of PG.

Exploring the Genetic Landscape of Childhood Glaucoma

“…Six published reports have consistently identified PCG as the prevalent common subtype, with studies from Egypt (55.07% from 207 samples [7]; 68.25% from 652 samples [8]), the USA (19.2% from 205 samples [9]), Brazil (43.95% from 496 samples [10]), India (35.27% from 275 samples [11]), and Australia/New Zealand (57.59% from 290 samples [4]). In contrast, two studies from Thailand and Boston have identified PCG (20.8% in Thailand; 29% in Boston) as the second most common subtype [12]. These findings underscore the variability in prevalence among different geographic populations and suggest potential genetic influences.…”

Adherence to Follow-Up and the Related Factors of Paediatric Glaucoma at a Tertiary Care Centre in Western Saudi Arabia

“…Interventional studies with a prospective cohort design are essential to increase adherence and reduce bias. For prompt diagnosis and treatment, more effective screening techniques may be useful [ 27 ]. Devastating visual results might result from delays in presentation, diagnosis, and management.…”