Treatment of choice for fellow eye in acute angle closure glaucoma is
The correct answer is probably a prophylactic treatment to prevent the fellow eye from experiencing an acute attack. The options might include laser peripheral iridotomy, which is the standard treatment. I remember that laser iridotomy creates a small hole in the iris to allow aqueous humor to flow and prevent angle closure. So why is that the treatment of choice for the fellow eye?
Now, looking at the other options, maybe they include medications like beta-blockers or alpha agonists, which are used for acute management but not prophylaxis. Surgical options like trabeculectomy are for chronic cases or when other treatments fail. Cycloplegics might be used but not as the first-line prophylactic treatment. Each incorrect option needs to be addressed with why they're not suitable for the fellow eye's treatment.
Clinical pearls: Always remember that the fellow eye in acute angle closure glaucoma requires preventive measures, and laser peripheral iridotomy is the gold standard. This is a high-yield fact for exams like NEET PG or USMLE. Don't confuse acute management with prophylaxis for the fellow eye.
**Core Concept**
Acute angle closure glaucoma (AACG) is an ophthalmic emergency caused by abrupt closure of the anterior chamber angle, leading to rapid intraocular pressure (IOP) elevation. The fellow eye is at high risk due to similar anatomic predispositions (e.g., shallow anterior chamber, narrow angles). Prophylactic treatment is critical to prevent unilateral AACG from progressing to bilateral disease.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
**Laser peripheral iridotomy (LPI)** is the definitive prophylactic treatment for the fellow eye in AACG. It creates a small opening in the iris periphery, equalizing pressure between the anterior and posterior chambers, thereby preventing pupillary blockβa primary mechanism of angle closure. LPI is minimally invasive, highly effective, and preserves vision in the unaffected eye. Early intervention reduces the risk of secondary complications (e.g., optic neuropathy, visual field loss).
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** *Medical therapy (e.g., beta-blockers, alpha agonists)* lowers IOP acutely but does not address anatomical predisposition. It is ineffective as prophylaxis in the fellow eye.
**Option B:** *Surgical iridectomy* is outdated; laser iridotomy is preferred for its precision and lower morbidity.
**Option C:** *Trabeculectomy* is reserved for chronic or refractory glaucoma, not prophylaxis.
**Option D:** *Cycloplegics* may temporarily relieve pain but do not prevent angle closure.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Never delay laser peripheral iridotomy in the fellow eye after a unilateral AACG diagnosis. "Treat the fellow eye first" is a cardinal rule to prevent bilateral vision loss. Remember: **Prophylactic