OCT scan

[Chris616]

I am 62 years old and have an eye test every year due to a history of Glaucoma in the family. Last year as well as the normal tests I had on OCT scan. This did not show any evidence of glaucoma, although it did show I had a posterior vitreous detachment Should it be necessary to have this scan every year to detect glaucoma, or just on an occasional basis

[PeterRabbit62]

I have one ten years ago when I was first diagnosed, now since and through the pandemic they do one every 6 months, although this appointment I have recently was delayed by an year because of delays so it was the first one I have this year, I too have a family history on both sides of my family, I also see an Opthalmologist every time I go whereas before the pandemic you got to see the opthalmologist if their assistance though it was necessary, I am glad the process has changed, why not ask the Opthalmologist why they are doing it, perhaps it is just that the process has changed so as they can watch out for changes in your eyes and catch it early so they start treating it and stop it from getting worse because once the damage is done you cannot get it back sadly there is no cure for gluacoma only prevention, best wishes.

[Chris616 in reply to PeterRabbit62]

Thanks for your reply, very helpful

[Trish_GlaucomaUK Partner]

An OCT is sometimes done as well as a Visual Field Test, and gives a 3D side image to check the layers of the retina to check for any changes. If your consultant feels it needs to be as regularly as the VFT he will, otherwise it may be done only occasionally and when your consultant feels one is needed.

[Chris616 in reply to Trish_GlaucomaUK]

Thanks for your reply, very helpful