Ocular Blood Flow in Early Glaucoma Patients Before and After Treatment With Dorzolamide

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.

Timeline

Start

2005-05

Primary completion

—

Completion

2006-06

Drugs

Indications