[Clinical evaluation of the optic disc in glaucoma].

BACKGROUND

Glaucoma is defined as a progressive neuropathy of the optic nerve, characterized by specific changes of the optic disc, parapapillary region, and retinal nerve fiber layer.

OBJECTIVES

Characteristic glaucomatous changes of the optic disc, parapapillary region, and retinal nerve fiber layer are discussed and their ophthalmoscopic examination is described.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A literature search in the PubMed database was conducted.

RESULTS

A systematic step-by-step approach to a qualitative and quantitative ophthalmoscopic evaluation of the optic disc regarding glaucomatous damage is presented.

CONCLUSION

A systematic, clinical, qualitative, and quantitative assessment of the optic disc can be performed with little effort and forms the basis for diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma.