Choroidal Thickness During Changes in Intraocular Pressure and Arterial Blood Pressure
Status:
Terminated
Trial end date:
1969-12-31
Target enrollment:
Participant gender:
Summary
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and glaucoma are among the leading causes of blindness
in the western world. Elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) is a well known major risk factor
for glaucoma. In addition, there is growing evidence that vascular factors, including
arterial hypertension and hypotension, may play a role in the pathogenesis of AMD and
glaucoma. To gain more insight into these mechanisms in humans is the primary goal of the
present study.
Optical coherence tomography (OCT) delivers three dimensional, volumetric reflectivity
information through transparent media in vivo. Moreover, the images show a high choroidal
penetration and a resolution comparable to an histologic examination when infrared light
sources are used. Because of its non-invasive character, OCT provides an ideal method for
diagnosis and monitoring of retinal and choroidal abnormalities.
The present study aims to investigate whether choroidal thickness is temporarily altered by
changes in IOP or systemic hemodynamic parameters. IOP will be increased by the use of a
suction cup technique, mean arterial blood pressure will be altered by intravenously
administered Phenylephrine or Sodium-Nitroprusside.