Vascular pathogenesis of normal-tension glaucoma: a possible pathogenetic factor, other than intraocular pressure, of glaucomatous optic neuropathy.

Elevated intraocular pressure is significant in the pathogenesis of glaucomatous optic neuropathy in glaucoma, however a number of studies suggest that pressure-independent factor(s) are also associated with the pathogenesis. In this article, the significance of vascular pathogenesis in glaucoma is discussed. A brief overview of substances used to treat glaucoma, independent of an effect on intraocular pressure, such as calcium channel blockers, is also discussed.