Prevention of Neovascular Glaucoma

Neovascular glaucoma (NVG) is defined by the occurrence of neovascularization (NV) of the iris and/or anterior chamber angle associated with increased intraocular pressure (IOP). Optic disc changes are not specific and cupping of the optic nerve head is not required for the diagnosis. Most frequently, the disorder is related to severe, profound retinal ischemia owing to, for example, proliferative diabetic retinopathy, the ischemic form of central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO), and ischemic ocular syndrome. In most cases, we do not have a definitive means of reversing the fully developed form of the disease. Although NVG is a serious complication, it is often preventable. The present study covering a 3-year span evaluates prospectively whether NVG prevention may be enhanced by intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB; Avastin; Genentech Inc., San Francisco, CA) administered to patients with acute central/hemicentral retinal vein occlusions (CHRVOs). Previous work has demonstrated that the rate of NVG seems to be reduced in patients receiving ranibizumab (Lucentis, Genentech, Inc.).