Master Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma (POAG - Chronic) with Picmonic for Medicine

This reduced outflow or stoppage of aqueous humor by obstruction leads to a slow increase in IOP. Due to a decreased trabecular meshwork, drainage channels will clog, thus increasing intraocular pressure. Ultimately, there will be damage to the optic nerve and eventual blindness.

POAG has a slow onset unlike its counterpart primary angle-closure glaucoma (PACG) which has a rapid onset. The patient may not notice the gradual visual field loss until peripheral vision has been largely compromised.

The patient does not experience any pain in POAG.

Untreated glaucoma leads to tunnel vision, which is the loss of peripheral vision and only a small center visual area field can be seen.

The normal range for IOP is between 10 to 21 mm Hg, but those with open-angle glaucoma typically have an elevated IOP reading between 22 to 32 mm Hg.

While drugs do not cure glaucoma, they can help control symptoms. Several options exist including miotics, beta adrenergic blockers, alpha adrenergic agonists, and systemic carbonic anhydrase inhibitors.