ANGLE-CLOSURE GLAUCOMA COMPLICATING SYSTEMIC ATROPINE USE IN THE CARDIAC-CATHETERIZATION LABORATORY

Atropine may precipitate angle closure glaucoma in those predisposed t o the disorder. Previously reported cases demonstrate the frequent mis diagnosis of acute glaucoma as conjunctivitis. Resultant delays in tre atment can lead to vision loss. The present case describes a 66-yr-old man who developed acute angle closure glaucoma after receiving atropi ne during a coronary angioplasty produce. Clinicians who utilize atrop ine should be aware of the possibility of precipitating angle closure glaucoma and the predisposing factors, signs, and symptoms to facilita te prompt diagnosis and treatment of this disorder. (C) 1996 Wiley-Lis s, Inc.