A Canadian glaucoma strategy.

BACKGROUND

To develop Canadian guidelines for the management of primary open-angle glaucoma and provide a quick and practical reference for physicians in the office setting.

METHODS

A Canadian Glaucoma Strategy began with a review of the literature and existing guidelines, as well as consultation with glaucoma specialists and general ophthalmologists across Canada. The resulting information was assessed by a panel of glaucoma experts and general ophthalmologists at the Canadian Glaucoma Strategy Forum to distill what was learned and construct the algorithms of care.

RESULTS

A Canadian Glaucoma Strategy was developed in 4 algorithms. First, patients are diagnosed on the basis of risk assessment and clinical findings. The staging algorithm is designed to determine the disease stage, while the treatment and follow-up algorithms focus on control of intraocular pressure and continuing patient follow-up.

INTERPRETATION: A Canadian Glaucoma Strategy is a practical series of algorithms that can be at hand in the office setting, providing the general ophthalmologist with an up-to-date guide for the management of patients with glaucoma concerns.