Definition of Open-angle glaucoma

Eye Diseases and Conditions Slideshow

Open-angle glaucoma: Glaucoma in which the aqueous (fluid) that flows through the pupil into the anterior (front) chamber of the eye cannot get through a filtration system called the trabecular meshwork into the drainage canals, causing pressure to build up within the eye which can damage the optic nerve and impair vision.

Open-angle glaucoma is the most common form of glaucoma. It is in contrast to angle-closure glaucoma in which the drainage canals themselves are blocked when the angular area between the iris and the cornea is not open.

For more information, see also: Glaucoma.