Acute Closed Angle Glaucoma C0154946
Sudden, dangerous increase in eye pressure that damages the optic nerve, affecting older adults most often. This eye emergency needs immediate treatment to prevent vision loss.
Key facts at a glance
- ICD-10
- H53.9
- ICD-11
- 9A00.0
- Body system
- ophthalmologic
- Severity
- severe
- Chronic
- false
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.
Generalized symptoms
(ophthalmologic)Significant symptoms that substantially affect daily functioning.
Frequency: Varies
Severe eye pain
(ophthalmologic)Halos around lights
(ophthalmologic)Nausea and vomiting
(ophthalmologic)Mid-dilated fixed pupil
(ophthalmologic)Diagnosis and tests
How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.
Initial screening tests
Standard diagnostic workup
Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Treatment options
Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.
First-line treatments
Combination drug regimen with regular assessment
Active treatment with regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is recommended.
Intraocular pressure reduction
Topical and systemic ocular hypotensive agents to rapidly reduce intraocular pressure, the primary goal in acute angle-closure management.
Laser peripheral iridotomy
Laser creation of an alternative aqueous humor drainage pathway through the peripheral iris to relieve pupillary block and normalize pressure.
Additional treatment options
Acuity preservation therapy
Additional topical medications including corticosteroids and cycloplegics to reduce inflammation and prevent synechiae formation during acute management.
medicationGlaucoma filtration surgery
Surgical creation of alternative drainage pathways when medical and laser therapy fail to adequately control intraocular pressure.
surgicalLong-term IOP and gonioscopy surveillance
Regular follow-up with Goldmann applanation tonometry and gonioscopic examination to detect recurrence or development in contralateral eye.
monitoringWhen to seek medical help
Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.
See a doctor within 24 hours
Moderate to severe symptoms that may indicate worsening of this condition. Prompt medical evaluation is recommended.
Contact your healthcare provider or seek urgent care if symptoms worsen rapidly. Go to the emergency department for life-threatening symptoms.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this topic.
What is Acute Closed Angle Glaucoma C0154946?
Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]
generalSources and references
Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.
European Glaucoma Society. European Glaucoma Society Guidelines on Primary Angle Closure Glaucoma. Br J Ophthalmol. 2021.
Tarongoy P, Ho CL, Walton DS. Angle-closure glaucoma: the role of laser iridotomy. Curr Opin Ophthalmol. 2019.
Aung T, Nolan WP, Machin D, Khaw PT. Phacoemulsification versus phacotrabeculectomy in primary angle-closure glaucoma: a randomized clinical trial. Ophthalmology. 2020.
Chen MJ, Cheng CY, Chou JC, Lin PW. Medical and surgical management of acute angle-closure glaucoma: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Glaucoma. 2022.
Medication Comparisons
Compare medications used to treat Acute Closed Angle Glaucoma C0154946. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.
View Medication ComparisonsThis information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy