Avanços Recentes no Manejo do Glaucoma: Uma Revisão Narrativa

Introduction: Glaucoma is a chronic and progressive optic neuropathy characterized by optic nerve damage and visual field loss, being one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness worldwide. It is estimated that more than 76 million people had glaucoma in 2020, and this number is projected to exceed 110 million by 2040. Objective: To review the main recent advances in the diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma, with emphasis on technological and therapeutic innovations. Methods: Narrative literature review carried out in PubMed, Scielo and Google Scholar databases, including publications between 2013 and 2023. Review articles, clinical trials and guidelines from international and national medical societies were included. Results and discussion: Diagnostic methods have been enhanced by optical coherence tomography (OCT) and artificial intelligence algorithms capable of early detection of structural changes. In clinical treatment, new prostaglandin analogs, sustained-release eye drops and fixed drug combinations have improved adherence. Laser therapy has advanced with selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT), and minimally invasive glaucoma surgeries (MIGS) provided safer alternatives to trabeculectomy. Despite these advances, challenges remain regarding universal access and treatment adherence. Conclusion: Glaucoma management has significantly evolved, allowing earlier diagnosis and less invasive treatments. However, the effectiveness of these advances depends on broader access and the implementation of screening strategies in public health.