Relationship between intraocular pressure and preservation of visual field in glaucoma.

Intraocular pressure (IOP) correlates with progressive loss of visual field in patients with glaucoma. Decreasing IOP has been proven to reduce progressive loss of the visual field. This is true both for glaucoma patients with IOPs above or within the normal range. For individuals with ocular hypertension (high IOP but no evidence of glaucomatous neuropathy), lowering IOP may reduce the risk of developing glaucoma. This article reviews scientific evidence that supports the importance of lowering IOP in patients with glaucoma or ocular hypertension.