Comparison of retinal nerve fibre layer thickness in patients residing in the western Himalayas: A cross-sectional analytical study.

Abstract

Pseudo exfoliative glaucoma (PEXG) is a sight-threatening disease that develops resulting from Pseudoexfoliation syndrome (PEX). The clinical impact of the diagnosis of early glaucomatous change can be understood. About 30–50% of retinal ganglion cells may be lost before any visual fields changes are detected due to the deposition of PEX material. 5, 6 some studies have reported the presence of difference in RNFL thickness measurement between the eyes with the PEX. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the RNFL thickness using SD-OCT system among the patients with PEX in comparison with patients affected with PEXG attending OPD clinic in the department of ophthalmology in IGMC Shimla. Patients having pseudoexfoliation with glaucoma showed significant visual field defects as compared to their counterparts(p<0.001). The overall mean RNFL Thickness(μm) in the two groups was 89.47±13.52 μm and 72.73±13.54 μm and the difference between the means of RNFL thickness between the two groups was found to be statistically significant (p<0.001). Measurement of RNFL thickness in early stages of Pseudoexfoliation with glaucoma can help to modify the course of management.