The mechanism and therapeutic strategies for neovascular glaucoma secondary to diabetic retinopathy

Neovascular glaucoma (NVG) is a devastating secondary glaucoma characterized by the appearance of neovascular over the iris and the proliferation of fibrovascular tissue in the anterior chamber angle. Proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) is one of the leading causes of NVG. Currently increasing diabetes population drive the prevalence rate of NVG into a fast-rising lane. The pathogenesis underlying NVG makes it refractory to routine management for other types of glaucoma in clinical practice. The combination of panretinal photocoagulation (PRP), anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) injections, anti-glaucoma drugs, surgical intervention as well as blood glucose control is needed. Early diagnosis and aggressive treatment in time are crucial in halting the neovascularization process and preserving vision. This review provides an overview of NVG secondary to diabetic retinopathy (DR), including the epidemiology, pathogenesis and management, so as to provide a better understanding as well as potential therapeutic strategies for future treatment.

Automated summary

Neovascular glaucoma (NVG) is a severe secondary glaucoma characterized by the presence of new blood vessels over the iris and fibrovascular tissue proliferation in the anterior chamber angle. Proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) is a major cause of NVG. The increasing population of diabetes has led to a rising prevalence of NVG. The pathogenesis of NVG makes it resistant to standard management for other types of glaucoma. A combination of treatments including panretinal photocoagulation (PRP), anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) injections, anti-glaucoma drugs, surgery, and blood glucose control is necessary. Early diagnosis and aggressive treatment are crucial for halting neovascularization and preserving vision. This review provides an overview of NVG secondary to diabetic retinopathy (DR) and offers potential therapeutic strategies for future treatment.