Glaucoma - Diagnosis

Other Tests. Other visual field tests are being developed that can detect abnormalities years before they can be detected by standard perimetry. Experts recommend some of these tests in selected patients with suspected glaucoma.

For example, a screening test called frequency doubling technology (FDT) checks for changes in particular cells in the retina that are indications of early glaucoma. It takes less than a minute to perform.

Another test called short wave automated perimetry (SWAP) uses colors (blue-on-yellow) and also detects very early abnormalities in the visual field. Testing time is longer than with FDT, however, and the presence of certain types of cataracts can interfere with its accuracy.

Markers

ELAM-1. Endothelial leukocyte cell adhesion molecule 1 (ELAM-1) is a molecule that has been found in glaucoma but not in healthy eyes. This molecule may prove to be a "marker" and its presence may be helpful in diagnosing glaucoma.

Test for Acute Closed-Angle Glaucoma

A simple test using a penlight helps determine the risk for acute closed-angle glaucoma. A beam of light is directed from the side of the face toward the patient's iris. If no shadow appears on the nose, then most likely the angle is wide enough to dilate. Using an instrument called a gonioscope, ophthalmologists can also inspect the front of the eyes and assess the drainage angle between the cornea and the iris and the channels in the trabecular meshwork. This test can differentiate between closed and open angle glaucoma.

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