Individuals with Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma may have Cognitive Impairment, reveals research
A recent study published in the Journal of Glaucoma revealed that individuals with Primary Open Angle Glaucoma (POAG) show cognitive impairments across various mental domains when compared to healthy individuals. The findings highlight the need for early recognition and comprehensive care for glaucoma patients beyond vision-related treatments.
This case-control study involved 70 POAG patients and an equal number of healthy participants. The study evaluated cognitive function using a series of standardized tests that measured attention, memory, language skills, executive functions, and working memory. Also, serum cortisol levels were assessed as an indicator of stress.
The POAG patients demonstrated significantly higher intraocular pressure and cup-disc ratio, along with a marked reduction in retinal nerve fiber layer thickness and visual field mean deviation. These ophthalmological factors were accompanied by a decline in cognitive test performance.
In cognitive assessments, glaucoma patients scored significantly lower on the Addenbrooke Cognitive Examination (ACE-III) and Post Graduate Institute Memory Scale (PGIMS) tests which indicated deficits in memory, language, and attention. They also took longer to complete the Trail Making Test (TMT-A), a task that measures attention and cognitive flexibility.
Disclaimer: This website is primarily for healthcare professionals. The content here does not replace medical advice and should not be used as medical, diagnostic, endorsement, treatment, or prescription advice. Medical science evolves rapidly, and we strive to keep our information current. If you find any discrepancies, please contact us at corrections@medicaldialogues.in. Read our Correction Policy here. Nothing here should be used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not endorse any healthcare advice that contradicts a physician's guidance. Use of this site is subject to our Terms of Use, Privacy Policy, and Advertisement Policy. For more details, read our Full Disclaimer here.
NOTE: Join us in combating medical misinformation. If you encounter a questionable health, medical, or medical education claim, email us at factcheck@medicaldialogues.in for evaluation.