Purpose: The objective of this research was to compare the loss of ret
inal ganglion cells subserving the fovea to that of the ganglion cells
in the surrounding perifoveal region in eyes with experimental glauco
ma. Methods: Ganglion cell nucleoli were counted using light microscop
y from vertically oriented retinal, strips and the cell density was ca
lculated using the modified Abercombie formula. Percent ganglion cell
loss in glaucomatous eyes from five monkeys was determined for each of
up to five contiguous areas within the central 12 degrees of the reti
na by comparison to normal fellow eyes. Results: Loss of central gangl
ion cells was present even in eyes with mild glaucomatous damage. The
percent ganglion cell loss in glaucomatous eyes at five adjacent areas
within the central 12 degrees of the retina did not differ significan
tly (ANOVA, p = 0.77, n = 8). Cell loss in areas nearest to the fovea
was indistinguishable from that in more peripheral perifoveal areas. C
onclusions: Foveal ganglion cells appear to be susceptible to experime
ntal glaucoma injury. Psychophysical testing of foveal functions may d
eserve renewed attention in glaucoma diagnosis and follow-up.