Glaucoma Mimickers

Course overview

Glaucoma remains one of the leading causes of irreversible vision loss; however, there are many causes of optic nerve damage that are not glaucomatous in nature. Distinguishing glaucoma from its mimickers is critical for accurate diagnosis, proper management, and the prevention of unnecessary treatment. This lecture will review the key clinical features that differentiate glaucoma from other conditions that can also result in visual field defects and optic nerve damage, including optic neuropathies, intracranial lesions, and stroke. Attendees will learn to recognize atypical findings through examination and ancillary testing. Emphasis will be placed on specific findings that should prompt further investigation or referral.