Ms Shelly-Anne Lalchan
Glaucoma Eye Foundation of Trinidad and Tobago (GiFT)
Title: An Analysis of First Line Treatment in Open Angle Glaucoma in Trinidad and Tobago, Caribbean
Biography
Biography: Ms Shelly-Anne Lalchan
Abstract
AIM: To qualify the epidemiology of patients diagnosed with primary open angle glaucoma; to analyse education pathway and, to determine, within the practical clinical setting, the efficacy of first line treatment within a high risk population . METHOD: A retrospective, consecutive series was analysed. The patient pathway incorporated multiple educational components ie educational videos, booklets, perimetry questionnaire, drop instillation techniques, compliance tips, prognosis and risks to family members. Inclusion criteria: age >35yrs, open angle glaucoma, new diagnosis and treatment initiation (glaucomatous optic neuropathy and/or visual field defect consistent with retinal nerve fibre layer damage), refractive error +3.0 to -5.0DS. RESULTS: Demographics: N 131 eyes ; mean age 60yrs (36-80yrs, SD 8.92); 28% had family history of glaucoma. The pre-treatment IOP mean 24.5mmHg (12-62mmHg SD 8.59;); mean CCT 537um ( 483-619um SD 26.4;); 78.5% of eyes had a CCT <555um. 8.4% had a mean deviation of <-12 db. There was no statistically significant difference ,one way ANOVA p 0.06. CONCLUSION: Education needs to be emphasized within the patient pathway in developing countries. First line therapy demonstrates good efficacy in a practical clinical scenario in a high risk population.