Clinical Diagnosis of Neovascular Glaucoma in the Emergency Room

Abstract

Patients with neovascular glaucoma may be asymptomatic in the early stages, but as the disease progresses, the elevated IOP may cause severe pain and/or decreased vision, which leads patients to seek medical attention by presenting to the emergency room. An array of presenting symptoms may indicate a new diagnosis of neovascular glaucoma or varying stages of the disease. Pertinent history and exam findings described in this chapter can help to evaluate patients with neovascular glaucoma in the emergency room. We highlight aspects of the eye examination that may be limited or modified in the emergency room setting. We describe resources in the emergency department can help to facilitate diagnostic workup for neovascular glaucoma including imaging and laboratory studies. Finally, we discuss initial management of NVG in the emergency room.