# Refining Glaucoma Management: Korean Population-Specific Findings from Visual Field and Optical Coherence Tomography Testing

## TL;DR

This study explores how age and sex affect glaucoma progression in Koreans using visual field and OCT tests, aiming to improve early detection and treatment.

## Contribution

The study provides population-specific insights into glaucoma progression in Koreans, highlighting the role of age and sex in test outcomes.

## Key findings

- Visual field index and MD values decrease with age, more significantly in males.
- Females maintain thicker GCIPL and RNFL layers until their 60s compared to males.
- Age and sex are associated with glaucoma progression in the Korean population.

## Abstract

Background/Objectives: This study aimed to serve as a reference for establishing glaucoma evaluation standards for the Korean by analyzing the results of visual field tests and optical coherence tomography (OCT). We also determined the correlation between these test results and patient demographics, such as age and sex, which is crucial for early glaucoma detection and management. Methods: This study was conducted at a national hospital in Seoul and analyzed 1510 visual field tests and 1337 OCT tests. The patients underwent the Humphrey automated visual field test and OCT measurements. Glaucoma was classified into early, moderate, and advanced stages based on the mean deviation (MD) value. Statistical analyses were performed to assess the relationships between age, sex, and test results. Results: The visual field test results showed that the visual field index and MD values decreased as age increased for both males and females, with a more significant decrease observed in males. The OCT findings revealed gradual thinning of the ganglion cell–inner plexiform layer (GCIPL) and retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) with increasing age, although, compared to males, thicker GCIPLs and RNFLs were maintained in females until their 60s. Conclusion: This study indicates that there may be an association between age and sex in glaucoma progression and provides valuable insights for establishing diagnostic and management modalities specifically for Korean patients. These findings support the use of both visual field testing and OCT in glaucoma diagnosis, emphasizing the importance of early detection and personalized treatment strategies for effective glaucoma management in Korea.