The Ocular Hypertension Treatment Study (OHTS) identified which of the following as the strongest independent predictor of conversion from ocular hypertension to POAG?
- A Age above 65 years
- B Thin central corneal thickness (<555 µm) ✓
- C IOP above 26 mmHg
- D Family history of glaucoma
Correct answer: B. Thin central corneal thickness (<555 µm)
Explanation
The OHTS trial identified thin central corneal thickness (CCT <555 µm) as the strongest independent risk factor for conversion from ocular hypertension to POAG. Thin CCT causes Goldmann applanation tonometry to underestimate true IOP and may indicate intrinsic scleral/optic nerve vulnerability. Other independent predictors included larger vertical cup-to-disc ratio, higher IOP, older age, and abnormal visual field pattern standard deviation. Family history was not a significant predictor in the OHTS model.
Reference: Khurana Comprehensive Ophthalmology, 7th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.