neovascularisation and glaucoma

Last reviewed 01/2018

Retinal ischaemia secondary to small retinal blood vessel disease such as diabetes or central retinal venous occlusion may result in the development of a neovascular membrane in the trabecular region. A severe blinding glaucoma (rubeotic glaucoma) develops with a poor prognosis.

Argon laser or cryotherapy is required to prevent neovascularisation or reverse non-fibrotic neovascular angle closure.

An angle irreversibly blocked by a fibrotic membrane requires that the ciliary body be destroyed or that a drainage tube be inserted.