Pseudoexfoliation (PEX) Glaucoma Over the Age of 40 Years; a Hospital Based Study

Abstract

Purpose: To determine the prevalence of Pseudoexfoliation (PEX) glaucoma in patients over the age of 40 years who presented at eye department of Baqai Medical University hospital, Karachi for examination.

Material and Method: This hospital based prospective case study was carried out at the department of Ophthalmology, Baqai Medical University Hospital, Karachi from August 2000 to January 2004. A total of 3195 patients of 40 years and above were examined on slit-lamp for evidence of PEX syndrome and glaucoma and those found to be having the disease were subjected to further thorough examination including visual acuity, Goldmann applanation tonometry, gonioscopy, slit lamp examination before and after dilatation of the pupil, fundus examination and visual field examination.

Results: Out of 3195 patients 58 (1.81%) were found to be having PEX syndrome, out of which 21 patients showed PEX glaucoma. Out of 3195 patients 1807 (56.55%) males and 1388 (43.44%) were females. Male to female ratio of PEX was 2:1. The prevalence increased with advancing age.

Conclusions: PEX syndrome and glaucoma is more common in males and increases with advancing age.