GLAUCOMA — A Silent Threat in Adults and Children

Examen ophtalmologique pour dépistage du glaucome à Excellence Clinique en Algérie

 

Glaucoma is a chronic eye disease that progressively damages the optic nerve. It is one of the main causes of irreversible blindness worldwide. Often nicknamed the silent thief of sight, it evolves without apparent symptoms, hence the importance of early screening.

At Excellence Clinique in Algeria, we provide comprehensive management of glaucoma in adults and children, with the distinction of being among the few centers to perform congenital glaucoma surgery.


Glaucoma in Adults

In adults, the most frequent type is chronic open-angle glaucoma. It progresses slowly, without pain, and is characterized by a gradual reduction of the visual field, which can lead to tunnel vision.

Risk Factors:

  • Age over 40
  • Family history
  • High myopia
  • High intraocular pressure
  • Diabetes or arterial hypertension

Glaucoma Diagnosis:

  • Measurement of intraocular pressure
  • Optic nerve analysis by OCT
  • Visual field study
  • Gonioscopy (evaluation of the drainage angle)

Available Treatments:

  • Hypotensive eye drops: first-line therapy
  • Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) to improve drainage
  • Surgery (trabeculectomy, implants, MIGS) for resistant cases

Congenital Glaucoma: A Visual Emergency

Congenital glaucoma appears at birth or within the first years of life. Rare but serious, it is caused by an anomaly in the eye’s drainage system.

Warning Signs in Children:

  • Significant tearing
  • Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
  • Enlarged cornea or abnormally large eye
  • Vision loss

Unlike adult glaucoma, congenital glaucoma requires early surgery:

  • Goniotomy or trabeculotomy: opening of the drainage angle
  • Drainage implants in complex cases

These procedures are essential for preserving the child’s vision.


The Expertise of Excellence Clinique

At Excellence Clinique, we are one of the reference centers in Algeria for congenital glaucoma surgery. Our specialized team in pediatric ophthalmology and glaucoma surgery ensures personalized follow-up, from consultation to treatment.

Why Choose Excellence Clinique?

  • Comprehensive glaucoma care: screening, medical treatment, laser, and surgery
  • Specific expertise in congenital glaucoma surgery
  • Cutting-edge equipment for rapid and precise diagnosis
  • An experienced team dedicated to preserving visual capital

Conclusion

Glaucoma, whether affecting adults or children, remains a serious disease requiring specialized care.

At Excellence Clinique, we offer all the solutions to prevent, diagnose, and treat glaucoma, including congenital glaucoma surgery, which is rare in Algeria.

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