EyeCon 2024: Exploring innovative approaches to glaucoma management

At this year’s EyeCon conference in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Annalisa Arosemena, MD, a specialist in glaucoma and anterior segment diseases, delivered an impactful lecture on the complexities of glaucoma diagnosis and management. With a focus on fostering collaboration between optometry and ophthalmology, Arosemena highlighted the importance of comprehensive approaches to treating this common yet serious eye condition.

In her presentation, Arosemena addressed critical aspects of glaucoma diagnosis, emphasizing the distinction between "red flags" and "red herrings." She noted that while certain signs can indicate glaucoma, others may lead practitioners to consider alternative diagnoses. “It’s essential to identify these indicators to ensure we don’t miss other underlying conditions,” she explained. By sharing her expertise on when to pursue additional imaging or refer patients for specialized care, Arosemena aimed to equip attendees with practical tools for improving patient outcomes.

Looking ahead, Arosemena is particularly excited about emerging trends in glaucoma treatment. In her upcoming lecture, she will discuss significant changes in first-line therapies, specifically the evolving role of topical medications. “We are moving towards a model where topicals are no longer the primary treatment option,” she stated. Instead, Arosemena advocates for proactive management strategies that may include laser therapies and extended-release medications. These approaches reduce reliance on patient compliance with daily drops, offering a more effective means of controlling glaucoma.

The collaborative nature of EyeCon provides a valuable platform for professionals from both fields to come together, share insights, and advance their understanding of complex eye care issues. Arosemena's contributions underscore the importance of continual education and adaptation in the face of evolving treatment modalities.

As the field of glaucoma management advances, Arosemena's work is a reminder that interdisciplinary cooperation and innovation are crucial for optimizing patient care. Through events like EyeCon, eye care professionals can stay informed and better equipped to tackle the challenges presented by glaucoma and its management.