Narrow-angle glaucoma presenting as acute, painless visual impairment

Ann Emerg Med. 1991 Sep;20(9):1020-2. doi: 10.1016/s0196-0644(05)82984-1.

Abstract

A 42-year-old woman presented with the acute onset of bilateral blurred vision that occurred immediately after bending over. She denied pain or any other associated symptoms. Markedly increased intraocular pressure readings were found. Treatment for acute narrow-angle glaucoma was initiated, and normal vision returned. This case represents an atypical presentation of acute narrow-angle glaucoma, a true ophthalmological emergency. The pathophysiology and treatment options of this disease process are summarized.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Acetazolamide / administration & dosage
  • Acetazolamide / therapeutic use
  • Adult
  • Emergency Service, Hospital*
  • Female
  • Glaucoma, Angle-Closure / complications*
  • Glaucoma, Angle-Closure / diagnosis
  • Glaucoma, Angle-Closure / therapy
  • Gonioscopy
  • Humans
  • Intraocular Pressure
  • Laser Therapy
  • Ophthalmology
  • Pilocarpine / administration & dosage
  • Pilocarpine / therapeutic use
  • Referral and Consultation
  • Vision Disorders / etiology*

Substances

  • Pilocarpine
  • Acetazolamide