Lead researcher Park and colleagues reported that corneal biomechanical properties were both associated and correlated with visual field damage in normal-tension glaucoma (NTG) patients.
A retrospective study of 82 patients who were receiving topical anti-glaucoma medications was conducted. Based on their mean corneal hysteresis and progression status, participants were sorted into two groups. Univariable and multivariable logistic analyses were used to determine whether isolated factors, including central corneal thickness (CCT), retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL) thickness and CH, were associated with progression.
The researchers found that eyes that demonstrated progression of visual field damage had lower CH, lower CCT and thinner average RNFL thickness. Additionally they noted a significant correlation between CH and CCT.
They concluded, “The present study revealed that CH is significantly and independently associated with visual field progression in patients with NTG. As patients with low CH may experience faster visual
field deterioration, CH measurements in NTG patients may be valuable in practice. Prospective longitudinal studies are needed to investigate the relationship between corneal biomechanics and long-term risk of glaucoma progression.”
