Development of Robust Corneal Biomechanical Biomarkers for Glaucoma Using Brillouin Microscopy
This pilot study evaluates the biomechanical properties of the cornea in glaucoma patients using Brillouin microscopy, a non-contact imaging technique. The study aims to compare corneal stiffness between patients with normal-tension glaucoma, high-tension glaucoma, and healthy controls, and to assess changes in corneal biomechanics following intraocular pressure (IOP)-lowering treatment. The goal is to determine whether Brillouin-derived biomechanical measurements can serve as biomarkers for glaucoma risk and progression.
• \- Age 18 years or older
• Diagnosis of primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) or no history of glaucoma (for controls)
• Open angle on gonioscopy (Shaffer grade 3 or 4)
• Best-corrected visual acuity of 20/25 or better
• Refractive error between +3.00 and -5.00 diopters
• No prior use of topical glaucoma medications
• Diagnosis of:
• High Tension Glaucoma (IOP ≥ 22 mmHg on 3 visits)
• Normal Tension Glaucoma (IOP ≤ 21 mmHg on 3 visits)
• OR age-matched control with normal optic nerve and visual fields