[Importance of ocular blood flow in glaucoma].

BACKGROUND: The vascular factor is becoming increasingly important in the pathogenesis of primary open-angle glaucoma. Ocular hypotonia, which is indubitably a risk factor in the development of glaucoma, cannot be regarded as the sole pathogenic factor. Clinical experience leaves no doubt that some patients tolerate a high IOP for prolonged periods of time without ocular damage. In others, however, severe glaucoma-related lesions result from slight hypertonia or critically low pressure.

METHODS: The authors analyze the general factors which influence ocular blood flow and increase the deleterious effect of ocular hypertonia, and report results relating to the hemodynamic status of a group of glaucoma patients prior to and after one year of therapy with beta-blockers. The results are analyzed and discussed.