European heritage linked to increased risk of optic disc hemorrhage

European descent was associated with a higher risk of optic disc hemorrhage than African descent, and African descent was associated with greater prevalence of beta-zone parapapillary atrophy, a study found.

Study authors reported results of the African Descent and Glaucoma Evaluation Study (ADAGES).

“These findings suggest that there are structural differences within the optic nerve complex between these groups. Further research is needed to determine whether racial differences in the frequency of [disc hemorrhage] and prevalence of [beta-zone parapapillary atrophy] affect the likelihood of glaucomatous progression,” the authors wrote.

The prospective, multicenter study included 9,395 stereoscopic disc photographs of 1,950 eyes of 1,172 participants in the ADAGES study.

Optic disc hemorrhage (DH) occurred in 49 of 1,022 European eyes (4.8%) and 10 of 928 African eyes (1.1%); the between-group difference was statistically significant (P < .001). Beta-zone parapapillary atrophy occurred in 675 African eyes (72%) and 659 European eyes (64%); the difference was statistically significant (P < .001).

DH was detected in the inferotemporal optic disc in 47 European eyes (96%) and six African eyes (60%), and inferonasally in three African eyes (30%).

Significant predictive factors for DH were presence of glaucomatous optic neuropathy (P < .001) and older age (P < .001). Significant predictors for beta-zone parapapillary atrophy were presence of glaucomatous optic neuropathy (P < .001), older age (P < .001) and higher myopia (P = .031). – by Matt Hasson

Disclosure: Skaat reports no relevant financial interest. See the study for a full list of all authors’ relevant financial disclosures.

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Source:

Skaat A, et al. Ophthalmology. 2016;doi:1016/j.ophtha.2016.03.025.