A decision-making schema for the detection of glaucoma.

A schema is proposed for management of optometrical patients who may have glaucoma or any of 22 risk factors of glaucoma. The assessment system has established decision points and management pathways based on risk factors in glaucoma which employ only clinical procedures appropriate to current optometrical practice. This schema is particularly designed to permit diagnosis of early angle-closure glaucoma while the disease is in the symptomless phase, prior to chronic elevation of intraocular pressure and the development of damage to the optic disc and visual fields. A recommendation is made for inclusion of the Van Herick test as routine and in the assessment of patients entering the schema. Gonioscopy should form part of the diagnostic workup, but an alternative pathway is established for use when this technique is omitted.