Pseudoexfoliative glaucoma is a condition in which deposits of protein build up in the eyes. This can make it difficult for a liquid known as the aqueous humor to drain from the eyes, ultimately leading to increased eye pressure and nerve damage. Pseudoexfoliative glaucoma can be difficult to diagnose early in the disease because of the subtlety of its symptoms.
Vision Loss
One of the main symptoms of pseudoexfoliative glaucoma, according to the Handbook of Ocular Disease Management, is loss of vision. This vision loss is the result of increased fluid buildup in the eye, resulting in increased pressure within the eye. This increased pressure compresses the optic nerve, which transmits visual signals from the eyes to the brain. Consequently, patients with this form of glaucoma will experience a gradual loss of portions of their vision. The vision loss typically begins with the peripheral vision and will slowly migrate centrally, ultimately leading to total blindness, the Mayo Clinic explains. While the disease is progressing, patients with pseudoexfoliative glaucoma will still be able to see normally within the fields of vision that are unaffected. As the disease continues, however, patients will have a reduced area in which they can see, which can become very noticeable as the disease becomes advanced.
White Film
Pseudoexfoliative glaucoma is marked by the appearance of a film of white flaky material on the eyes of the patient. This material, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, can be seen on the edges of the iris, though an ophthalmoscope or some other instrument for magnification may be needed to properly see the white compound. This material is made of amyloid, which is a substance composed of abnormal proteins that can form insoluble deposits on the walls of tissues. Often this material is more visible when the eyes are dilated, so patients concerned about pseudoexfoliative glaucoma should request that their eyes be dilated for any eye exams.
Dark Sensitivity and Focusing Problems
Pseudoexfoliative glaucoma also can cause more subtle eye problems before vision loss has begun. The American Academy of Ophthalmology notes that this condition can make it difficult for the pupils to dilate. Pupil dilation is needed for the eyes to see well under dim lighting, so patients with this condition may experience poor night vision. The condition can also disrupt the flow of blood to some of the muscles in the eye, making it hard for the eye to rapidly change where it is focused, causing some blurring of vision.
