Glaucoma: a brief update for 2017

  • Natalie Schellack Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University
  • Gustav Schellack
  • Selente Bezuidenhout Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University
  • Lucille Malan Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University
  • Hanneke de Klerk Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University
Keywords: glaucoma, intra-ocular pressure, IOP, ocular hypertension, visual field loss, carbonic anhydrase

Abstract

Glaucoma is a complex condition of the eye and the second leading cause of blindness around the globe. It is an ophthalmic neurodegenerative condition and is characterised by a raised intra-ocular pressure (IOP). The latter also constitutes the only modifiable risk factor in glaucoma management. When left untreated patients may gradually experience a visual field loss, and even lose their sight completely. This article provides a brief overview of this condition, the pharmacological treatment options that are available in South Africa, as well as the rational use thereof.

Author Biographies

Natalie Schellack, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University
BCur, BPharm, PhD Senior Lecturer Department of Pharmacy Faculty of Health Sciences Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University
Gustav Schellack
BCur, Adv Univ Dipl Nurs Sc (HSM), Hons BSc (Pharmacology) Clinical Research Professional Private Sector
Selente Bezuidenhout, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University
National Diploma Biomedical Technology (Virology), National Higher Diploma Biomedical Technology (Virology), MTech (Virology), PhD (Pharmacy) Senior Lecturer School of Pharmacy Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University
Lucille Malan, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University
BPharm, MPharm (Clinical Pharmacy) Senior Lecturer School of Pharmacy Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University
Hanneke de Klerk, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University
BPharm Junior Lecturer School of Pharmacy Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University
Section
Review Articles