Ophthalmology and Vision Science

Glaucoma: Early Detection and Therapeutic Innovations

Glaucoma is a leading cause of irreversible vision loss, requiring timely diagnosis and management to prevent optic nerve damage. Advances in imaging, including optical coherence tomography, confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscopy, and visual field analysis, enable early detection of structural and functional changes. Traditional pharmacological treatments involve intraocular pressure-lowering agents, while minimally invasive glaucoma surgeries and laser therapies offer alternatives for refractory cases. Current challenges include patient adherence to lifelong treatment, managing advanced-stage glaucoma, and predicting disease progression. Artificial intelligence tools are now being applied to detect subtle optic nerve changes and stratify patient risk, supporting precision medicine approaches. Nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems aim to enhance ocular bioavailability and reduce systemic side effects. Regulatory authorities evaluate the safety and efficacy of novel therapeutic devices and medications, ensuring patient protection. Emerging trends emphasize personalized treatment plans, combination therapies, and tele-ophthalmology for remote monitoring. By integrating clinical expertise, innovative technologies, and robust regulatory frameworks, glaucoma management continues to evolve, offering improved preservation of vision and quality of life.