THE ROLE OF ARTERIAL HYPERTENSION IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF GLAUCOMA

Arterial hypertension is one of the most prevalent chronic diseases worldwide and represents a major risk factor for cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, and ocular disorders. Glaucoma is a progressive optic neuropathy characterized by degeneration of retinal ganglion cells and irreversible visual field loss. Although elevated intraocular pressure is the most important risk factor for glaucoma, vascular factors play a significant role in the pathogenesis of the disease. Arterial hypertension affects ocular blood circulation, autoregulation, and perfusion pressure, which may contribute to the development and progression of glaucomatous optic neuropathy. The purpose of this article is to analyze the role of arterial hypertension in the development of glaucoma and to review the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms and clinical evidence.