Question

A 81 year old patient comes to the clinic because she has noticed a change in her vision over the past few months. She states that she is having a hard time reading as a result. Upon examination, the nurse practitioner notes cupping and uses a tonometer to assess IOP. Normal, reactive pupils. What value from the tonometer is concerning for open-angle glaucoma?

a. <8 mmHg
b. 8-15 mmHg
c. 15-21 mmHg
d. >22 mmHg

Answer 1

The tonometer reading that raises concern for open-angle glaucoma is greater than 22 mmHg, as normal intraocular pressure ranges from 12 to 24 mmHg, and anything above can indicate glaucoma. the correct option is d. >22 mmHg

Step-by-step explanation:

The value from the tonometer that is concerning for open-angle glaucoma is >22 mmHg (option d). Intraocular pressure (IOP) is normally in the range of 12 to 24 mm Hg. Values above this range can indicate the potential for glaucoma, a condition where increased pressure within the eye can lead to damage to the optic nerve.

It is crucial for individuals over 40 to undergo regular IOP testing to detect glaucoma early, as this age group is at higher risk. An elevated IOP, such as anything over 22 mm Hg, suggests that the eye will deform less and rebound more vigorously than normal due to higher fluid pressure, which can be a sign of open-angle glaucoma.

Glaucoma is a condition characterized by increased intraocular pressure (IOP) that can damage the optic nerve. Normal IOP ranges from 12-24 mmHg. However, an IOP greater than 22 mmHg is considered elevated and may indicate open-angle glaucoma.