Purpose: To evaluate retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) and optic nerve head (ONH) changes in
primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) by OCT.
Methodology: This prospective observational study was conducted in the department of Glaucoma
clinic, National Institute of Ophthalmology & Hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh during the period of 1st
January 2012 to 30th June 2012 on 50 cases of early primary open angle glaucoma ie, glaucoma
suspect patient .All patient had a baseline evaluation which included, IOP measurement, angle
assessment, anterior & posterior segment assessment including Optic disc ie, Optic Nerve Head
(ONH) evaluation. Then assessment of the retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness was performed by
using a OCT3000 (Humphrey-Zeiss) instrument.
Result: Average RNFL thickness among study subjects out of 50 patients, 09 (18%) patients had
average RNFL thickness 60 micrometer (ì),17 (34%) had average RNFL thickness between 60-80
micrometer (ì), 24(48%) had average RNFL thickness between 80micrometer (ì). Mean average RNFL
thickness was 76.30 ±13.75micrometer (ì) & quadrant wise RNFL thickness among study subjects,
mean inferior quadrant RNFL thickness was 81.30 ± 13.38 ì (SD), mean superior quadrant RNFL
thickness was 77.98 ±13.57 ì, mean nasal quadrant RNFL thickness was 74.92 ± 13.59 ì and mean
temporal quadrant RNFL thickness was 71.92± 13.47 ì.
Conclusion: OCT in glaucoma is a excellent effective tool in identifying and obtaining more accurate
quantitative data related to ONH and RFNL. Analytical result of this study stabilizes that primary open
angle glaucoma cases may have moderate to mark RFNL reduction, though these are not evidenced by
perimetry. With an earlier accurate diagnosis and timely therapy, should be preventing glaucoma
related blindness the goal for this century.