Abstract

Design: Cross-sectional observational study
Purpose: To understand the changes in visual cortex activity in primary glaucoma
Methods: 30 primary open angle glaucoma, 30 primary angle closure glaucoma, and 30 healthy individuals were recruited. Data from 22 channels overlying the visual cortex were acquired using functional near-infrared spectroscopy. We recorded the rate of change of OxyHb (in mmol/L) at the occipital cortex over 30 seconds, considering a significant threshold difference at a p-value ≤ 0.05%. Group comparisons were conducted using three different frequencies of stimuli: 10 Hz, 1 Hz, and square 10 Hz.
Results: Brain areas corresponding to channels 9,10 and 11 i.e., cuneus as well as right and left superior occipital gyri region showed a significant difference in response between the control and glaucoma group [PACG > Control and POAG > Control] under all three stimuli. No statistically significant difference was seen between the two glaucoma groups: PACG and POAG.