Glaucoma with Diabetes Mellitus or Other Medical Illness

  • Long-standing diabetes mellitus may be associated with a very aggressive form of glaucoma.
  • This glaucoma is related to vascular changes in the eye.
  • Care must be coordinated between the Retina Service and the Glaucoma Center in order to prevent blindness.
  • Panretinal photocoagulation and trabeculectomy are frequently necessary.
  • Aggressive management is the key to preservation of vision.
  • Other medical diseases which are associated with glaucoma include hypertension, peripheral vascular disease, thyroid disease, and systemic inflammatory diseases such as sarcoidosis and systemic lupus erythematosis.