Differential Diagnosis for Sudden Blurring of Vision in Glaucoma

• Single Most Likely Diagnosis
  • Acute Angle-Closure Glaucoma: This condition is characterized by a sudden increase in intraocular pressure due to the iris blocking the drainage angle of the eye, leading to rapid vision loss and severe eye pain. It is a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment.
• Other Likely Diagnoses
  • Open-Angle Glaucoma with Sudden Worsening: While open-angle glaucoma typically progresses slowly, there can be periods of rapid progression, leading to sudden blurring of vision.
  • Ocular Hypertension: Elevated intraocular pressure without glaucomatous damage can sometimes cause transient vision disturbances, including blurring.
  • Central Retinal Vein Occlusion (CRVO): This condition involves blockage of the main vein of the retina and can cause sudden vision loss, which might be perceived as blurring.
• Do Not Miss Diagnoses
  • Retinal Detachment: A medical emergency where the retina separates from the back of the eye, causing sudden vision loss, including blurring and flashes of light.
  • Diabetic Papillopathy: Inflammation of the optic disc due to diabetes, which can cause sudden vision blurring.
  • Optic Neuritis: Inflammation of the optic nerve, which can lead to sudden vision loss, including blurring, and is often associated with multiple sclerosis.
• Rare Diagnoses
  • Uveitic Glaucoma: Glaucoma secondary to uveitis (inflammation of the uvea), which can cause sudden vision changes, including blurring.
  • Neovascular Glaucoma: A rare form of secondary glaucoma caused by the formation of new blood vessels on the iris and the trabecular meshwork, often associated with diabetic retinopathy.
  • Malignant Glaucoma: A rare condition characterized by elevated intraocular pressure in the presence of a shallow or flat anterior chamber without any visible blockage of the trabecular meshwork.