Dr.MAHESH BHARATHI

Dr. K. SUBASHINI, Dr. RENUKA SRINIVASAN

Abstract

Aim: To study the 24hr Blood Pressure(BP) pattern in glaucoma suspects and healthy subjects and compare the Retinal Nerve Fiber Layer(RNFL) thickness among dippers and non-dipper

Methods:100 glaucoma suspects and 100 patients undergoing cataract surgery were included. 24hr ambulatory BP (ABP) was measured.Various BP parameters were studied and patients were classified as non-dippers, dippers and over-dippers.OCT RNFL was done to assess optic nerve head (ONH) thickness.

Results: Glaucoma suspects showed statistically significant lower SBP and higher DBP values.Statistically significant thinning of superior, inferior and average RNFL among overt dippers was noted.An inverse relation between nocturnal dip in BP and RNFL thickness was noted.

Conclusion:Nocturnal BP dip was noted to be associated with anatomical damage in eyes of glaucoma suspects.This finding suggests systemic vascular etiology in the progression of ONH damage and needs close follow up to avoid glaucoma progression.