The role of estrogen in the development of glacoma tous optic neuropathy
Wojtowiec, A.; Wojtowiec, P.; Misiuk-Hojto, M.
Klinika Oczna 117(4): 275-277
2016
ISSN/ISBN: 0023-2157 PMID: 29727118 Document Number: 687666
Clinical research findings confirm that sex-based hormonal differences and hormone level fluctuations occurring in women over their entire lifespan play a significant role in the development of glaucomatous optic neuropathy. Nevertheless, many issues have not been addressed yet or have not been analyzed to the appropriate extent. Therefore, it is necessary to identify the hormones affecting the development and clinical course of the disease and quantify their effect, as well as to determine whether the hormone replacement therapy can support glaucoma treatment and ensure its success. Even in women with regular cycles and without optic nerve pathology, the analysis of menstrual cycle reveals the effect of fluctuations in sex hormone levels on optic nerve topography. Therefore, it seems logical that oral contraception and hormone replacement therapy, which cause even more significant hormonal imbalance, constitute factors modifying the risk of glaucoma by women. It should be noted, though, that the association with hormone-altering treatment and development of glaucoma was not confirmed in women after bilateral ovariectomy, because the observed differences lacked statistical significance. Pregnancy is unique in a sense that medications administered to the pregnant woman can adversely affect both her and fetal wellbeing. Fortunately, pertinent research providing substantial data on glaucoma and its risk modifiers, clinical course and treatment does not have to be done in human subjects only. Animal-based research provides an extensive database. Both experiments referred to in this paper confirm the neuroprotective effect of estrogens on the optic nerve with elevated intraocular pressure.