Primary open-angle glaucoma: diagnostic approaches and management.

Glaucoma represents the second most common cause of blindness in the United States affecting approximately 2 million Americans, with many others unaware of being afflicted. Primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG), which is the most common of all types of glaucoma, leads to progressive optic nerve damage. If left untreated, POAG can lead to irreversible blindness. Since POAG is a relatively asymptomatic disease, prevention of long-term complications must be accomplished with regular screening for early detection and appropriate treatment. Primary care physicians play a critical role in screening at-risk populations and, therefore, reducing the risk of visual loss that characterizes advanced stages of POAG.