Treatment of malignant glaucoma: March 2004
**Core Concept**
Malignant glaucoma is a rare and severe form of secondary glaucoma characterized by a shallow or flat anterior chamber, increased intraocular pressure (IOP), and a normal or low aqueous humor production. It is often associated with anterior segment dysregulation, leading to an abnormal positioning of the lens and vitreous.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The treatment of malignant glaucoma involves addressing the underlying cause of anterior segment dysregulation. The correct answer is **C. Discontinue miotics and use hyperosmotic agents and IOP-lowering medications**. Discontinuing miotics (which can worsen the condition) and using hyperosmotic agents to reduce vitreous volume helps to restore the anterior chamber depth. Additionally, IOP-lowering medications are used to control the elevated intraocular pressure.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** **Perform a vitrectomy**. While vitrectomy may be necessary in some cases of malignant glaucoma, it is not the initial treatment of choice and may not address the underlying cause of the condition.
* **Option B:** **Use laser trabeculoplasty**. Laser trabeculoplasty is effective in treating open-angle glaucoma, but it is not the appropriate treatment for malignant glaucoma.
* **Option D:** **Perform a cataract surgery**. Cataract surgery may be necessary in some cases of malignant glaucoma, but it is not the initial treatment of choice and may not address the underlying cause of the condition.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Malignant glaucoma is often associated with a history of recent eye surgery, particularly cataract surgery, and the use of miotics. Recognizing these risk factors can help in early diagnosis and treatment.
**Correct Answer: C. Discontinue miotics and use hyperosmotic agents and IOP-lowering medications**