Ocular Blood Flow in Early Glaucoma Patients Before and After Treatment With Dorzolamide
Status:
Unknown status
Trial end date:
2006-06-01
Target enrollment:
Participant gender:
Summary
Impaired ocular blood flow is an important risk factor in the pathogenesis of primary open
angle glaucoma (POAG). A few studies suggest that topical dorzolamide 2% may increase optic
nerve perfusion. The objectives of this study are to learn the effects of dorzolamide on the
retinal and optic nerve blood flow of glaucoma patients.
The present study is a prospective, randomized, double-masked, crossover design study of
newly diagnosed or already treated patients with early glaucoma.
The investigators will check ocular blood flow parameters using the Canon Laser Blood
Flowmeter (CLBF), used to evaluate retinal arteriole blood flow, and the Heidelberg retinal
flowmeter (HRF), which measures blood flow through capillary beds in the retina and optic
nerve head.
Any demonstrated improvements to retinal and optic nerve blood flow with dorzolamide, will
mean that the drug may protect against ischaemic nerve and retinal damage. Any documented
improvement in flow could lead to a major change in the management of glaucoma patients as
well as other retinal ischemic diseases such as diabetic retinopathy and central retinal vein
occlusion.