Catecholamine content of the lacrimal fluid of healthy people and glaucoma patients.

The level of catecholamines was determined in the lacrimal fluid since it may serve as an index of the activity of the sympatho-adrenal system. 86 persons aged between 35 and 65 years were studied. Of these, 49 were glaucoma patients, 16 patients had preglaucoma, and 21 practically healthy subjects served as a control. The results of the study showed that dopa and catecholamines: dopamine, noradrenaline and adrenaline can be determined in the lacrimal fluid of healthy people. Preglaucoma patients were found to have a reduced level of dopamine and its precursor dopa. Glaucoma patients were found to have reduced levels of dopa and noradrenaline. Determination of the level of catecholamine and dopa is considered to be an immediate index of the state of the sympathoadrenal system in the initial glaucoma. Determination of catecholamines and dopa in the lacrimal fluid can serve as a test in glaucoma diagnosis.