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ophthalmology emergency

Primary Angle Closure Disease Spectrum (PACS / PAC / PACG)

ISGEO consensus continuum of primary angle closure disease (Foster 2002, EAGLE 2016). Distinguishes occludable angles (PACS) from those with PAS or elevated IOP (PAC) and from established glaucomatous neuropathy (PACG). Critical for laser-iridotomy and lens-extraction decisions.

Used in: Acute Red Eye

Score interpretation

Primary Angle Closure Suspect (PACS) 1

→ EAGLE trial (Lancet 2016) supports clear-lens extraction as first-line in those ≥50 with IOP ≥30 / PAC. For PACS, observation with annual gonioscopy is acceptable; offer YAG peripheral iridotomy if symptomatic, narrow angle in fellow eye after attack, or anatomical risk (plateau iris).

Primary Angle Closure (PAC) 2

→ Bilateral YAG peripheral iridotomy. Consider phacoemulsification ± IOL even if cataract is mild (per EAGLE) in those with high IOP. Topical IOP-lowering as needed; gonioscopy follow-up.

Primary Angle Closure Glaucoma (PACG) 3

→ Lens extraction first-line per EAGLE / NICE NG81 (2022). Topical IOP-lowering pre-op. Trabeculectomy + MMC if IOP remains uncontrolled; goniosynechialysis at the time of phaco for fresh PAS. Lifelong glaucoma surveillance.

Acute Angle Closure Attack — Ocular Emergency 4

→ Same-hour ophthalmology. Initial: pilocarpine 2% drops in unaffected eye, supine position; topical timolol + apraclonidine + dexamethasone; oral acetazolamide 500 mg (or IV if vomiting); IV mannitol 1–1.5 g/kg if IOP not falling. Definitive YAG PI to both eyes once cornea clears, or early lens extraction. Antiemetics, analgesia.

Interpretation bands for the Angle Closure. Apply clinical judgement and local guidance.

References

Related

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

Decision support only — verify against a current formulary, NICE, or your local guideline before clinical use.