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Angle on Glaucoma: Types
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Steroid-Induced Glaucoma

The use of all steroids (eye drops, by mouth, injections, and creams) has been associated with causing glaucoma in certain individuals. It is thought that about 5% of people using topical steroids will have a large increase in intraocular pressures. The glaucomatous damage produced is usually stopped by discontinuing the use of the steroid and the intraocular pressures return to normal in about 2 to 4 weeks. Some patients who have been on corticosteroids for more than 4 years, however, have developed chronic glaucoma requiring treatment. This type of glaucoma is asymptomatic, similar to primary or low tension open angle glaucoma. Steroid use very rarely causes a closed angle attack. It is important to obtain a good history of steroid use both topically and systemically on all glaucoma patients.

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URL: http://www.opt.indiana.edu/clinics/pteduc/glaucoma/types/sig.htm
Revised: August 2, 2002
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