[Ocular surface disease in glaucoma patients: Expert opinion and management algorithm in Algeria]

Abstract

Introduction: The main goal of treatment for any glaucoma patient is to reduce the intraocular pressure. Unfortunately, the long-term use of glaucoma medications causes deleterious effects on the ocular surface, leading to impaired quality of life and failed glaucoma surgery. In addition, adverse effects of medications are a barrier to adherence and compliance, and this directly affects efficacy. It is therefore essential to regularly assess the ocular surface of glaucoma patients in order to detect any signs of damage early and act accordingly. Although the TFOS DEWS 2 now offers a strategy for diagnosing ocular surface pathologies, some examinations are unfortunately not feasible in Algeria due to lack of time and/or knowledge on the part of some ophthalmologists or are simply inaccessible to others.

Methods: Algerian experts (members of the ACOS club) met for the purpose of proposing an algorithm for the management of Algerian glaucoma patients, based on the recommendations of the DEWS, their own practice and the results of a preliminary national survey of ophthalmologists.

Results: The proposed algorithm allows evaluation of the ocular surface of the glaucoma patient in current practice by any Algerian ophthalmologist.

Conclusion: Management of glaucoma patients should include a systematic examination of the ocular surface. The choice of treatment should be determined by the ocular surface condition of the glaucoma patient.

Keywords: Conservateur; Dépistage; Glaucoma; Glaucome; Medication; Ocular surface; Preservative; Screening; Surface oculaire; Toxicity; Toxicité; Traitement.