Glaucoma referral threshold increased by NICE

Fewer people will need to be referred for further specialist investigation and possible treatment for glaucoma following updated guidance by NICE.

The new guidelines included a section on what tests should be carried out by primary eye care professionals to determine if referral to a specialist is necessary.

NICE recommended a higher inner eye pressure threshold of 24mm/Hg to prompt referral and treatment, up from 21mmHg previously.

Patients with an inner eye pressure below 24 mmHg should continue regular visits to their primary ECP for further detection, NICE suggested.

Professor Mark Baker, director of the centre for guidelines at NICE, said: ‘Chronic open angle glaucoma is a condition that should be taken seriously. People at risk of the condition should be carefully monitored so that it can be treated early.