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This abstract is assigned to session Ped & Low - Pediatric Ophthalmology and Low-Vision

Title	Medical glaucoma treatment in children
Abstract Nr.	1077

Purpose	The indications and side effects of topical and systemic anti-glaucoma treatment in children are described.
Methods	A review of literature is performed and an algorithm of medical treatment in children with glaucoma is described.
Results	Children are at a higher risk of systemic, potentially fatal side effects from topical administration. Measurements to reduce systemic absorption need to be taken. It is important to prescribe the minimum frequency and lowest concentration of a given glaucoma drug that is needed to achieve the target intraocular pressure. The medical therapy of pediatric glaucoma can be divided in five groups: beta-blockers, prostaglandin analogs, carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, sympathomimetics and miotics. Indications and potential side effects will be discussed.
Conclusion	Medical therapy plays an important role in childhood glaucoma; the indication for a specific treatment depends on the type of glaucoma, as well as specific features of the affected child and eyes. Beta-blockers are considered the first-line therapy, whereas carbonic anhydrase inhibitors are the second-line therapy. Recent evidence from a RCT in a pediatric population indicates that prostaglandin analogues are not inferior to beta-blockers and have minimal systemic side effects. This makes them a valid alternative for first line therapy.
Conflict of interest	No

Authors 1

Last name	ODENT
Initials	S
Department	UZLeuven
City	Leuven

Authors 2

Last name	Cassiman
Initials	C
Department	UZLeuven
City	Leuven

Authors 3

Last name	Vandewalle
Initials	E
Department	UZLeuven
City	Leuven

Authors 4

Last name	Stalmans
Initials	I
Department	UZLeuven
City	Leuven

Authors 5

Last name	Casteels
Initials	I
Department	UZLeuven
City	Leuven