Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Methods

Results

Discussion & Conclusion

References

Discussion
Board

Purpose. To evaluate whether parapapillary atrophy varies among different forms of primary open-angle glaucomas (POAG). The parapapillary atrophy can be differentiated into a peripheral alpha zone with irregular pigmentation, and a zentral beta zone at the optic disc margin with visible sclera and visible large choroidal vessels. Methods. Color stereo optic disc photographs of 631 Caucasian patients with POAG were morphometrically examined. The group was differentiated into different types of POAG. Results. Beta zone of parapapillary atrophy was significantly (p > 0.0001) largest in the highly myopic type of POAG (n=32, myopia < = -8.0 D; mean ± S.D.: 4.11 ± 3.42 sqmm), followed by the age-related atrophic type of POAG (n=89, age < 50 y, marked fundus tessellation; 1.00 ± 1.37 sqmm). In the latter, parapapillary atrophy was significantly (p > 0.001) larger than in ordinary POAG (n=425; 0.66 ± 1.06 sqmm). Parapapillary atrophy was significantly (p > 0.01) smallest in the juvenile type of POAG (n=33, age > 40 y; 0.33 ± 0.72 sqmm), and in the focal type of normal-pressure glaucoma (n=52; 0.29 ± 0.38 sqmm). The two latter groups did not vary significantly in beta zone. Conclusions. Various types of POAG differ in parapapillary atrophy. This may diagnostically and pathogenetically be important.

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Presentation Number SAbudde0244
Keywords: Glaucoma, optic disc