Obstructive Sleep Apnea as a Risk Factor for Normal Tension Glaucoma and a Crucial Step in Preventing Blindness
Northwell Health
Summary
The purpose of this research study is to learn more about the relationship between Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) and Normal Tension Glaucoma (NTG). OSA is a nighttime disorder of the upper airway that causes an intermittent lack of oxygen while sleeping. NTG is a type of glaucoma that occurs despite the normal intraocular pressure levels, making its detection more difficult. Left untreated, irreversible optic nerve damage and extensive vision loss can result. Previous research has shown some evidence between OSA and the development of NTG. The investigators are researching whether undergoing treatment for OSA would help to improve the vascular health to the retina, and in effect, improve the early signs of visual dysfunction seen with diagnostic testing.
Description
Glaucoma is a leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. Normal tension glaucoma (NTG) is a challenging subtype in which progressive changes to the optic nerve and retinal ganglion cell (RGC) function occur despite normal intraocular pressures (IOP). In most types of glaucoma, elevated IOP is the major risk factor and a key target for medical therapy. The absence of IOP elevation in NTG poses diagnostic dilemmas and therapeutic challenges. The disease is often diagnosed late, with irreversible atrophic changes to the optic nerve and permanent loss of vision. These clinically manifested…
Eligibility
- Age range
- 21+ years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Not specified
Inclusion Criteria: * Newly diagnosed subjects with OSA that will undergo CPAP treatment. * At least 21 years of age * Best corrected vision of 20/40 or better, spherical Rx \< ± 6.0 Diopter, and cylinder \<-3.0D * Ability to follow instructions, and intent to complete all study visits Exclusion Criteria: * High Rx \>± 6.0D and cylinder \> -3.0D * Narrow angle glaucoma * History of any of the following: severe eye trauma, ocular inflammation, previous intraocular surgery except for uncomplicated cataract extraction with posterior chamber intraocular lens implantation. * Any medical or ocula…
Interventions
- OtherClinical observation, diagnostic testing
Glaucoma evaluation including structural and functional diagnostic testing at baseline and 3 subsequent follow-up visits over a period of 9 months
Locations (2)
- Manhattan Eye, Ear, & Throat HospitalNew York, New York
- Manhattan Eye, Ear, & Throat HospitalNew York, New York