Glaucoma hypothesis: application of the law of Laplace.

The objective of the proposed research is to design a test for anticipating glaucoma damage. In this project, the author is utilizing a mathematical equation defined by Laplace's law as applied to a hollow organ. Eye wall stress should be evaluated concomitantly with the intraocular pressure, in order to define the susceptibility of the eye to develop glaucoma. The idea presented in this paper allows for better understanding of different factors responsible for the pathogenesis of open angle glaucoma, of low pressure glaucoma, and of ocular hypertension. It allows one to predict how a given eye will react to a given pressure, that is, whether damage will occur or not. It might answer the question whether to treat right away, or wait and follow. It explains the higher prevalence of glaucoma in myopic eyes. It outlines easy, noninvasive, inexpensive preventive measures, which do not require new and costly facilities. The next step, in further elaboration of this project, should probably be to evaluate the relationship between the ocular pulse and pressure curve. This will be discussed and presented in the future.