Glaucoma Sensor

Glaucoma can be painless and symptomless for a long time while slowly damaging the optic nerve. Glaucoma Sensor is a genetic test that shows whether you carry genetic variants associated with susceptibility to glaucoma. It does not assess all forms of glaucoma or measure eye pressure. Your result includes recommendations on prevention and when to start examinations with an ophthalmologist.

Who is this test for

• a parent, brother or sister has glaucoma;
• you have had borderline or high eye pressure measured;
• you want to know whether you should have eye examinations earlier and more often;
• you are over 40 and considering prevention of eye disease;
• you are interested in a genetic profile of eye health, for example alongside AMD Sensor.

What the test reveals

According to the test description, Glaucoma Sensor analyses selected genetic variants associated with susceptibility to glaucoma and provides general recommendations on prevention and when to begin ophthalmological examinations. Ask for the exact list of genes and variants covered before testing. It is important to understand the test’s limits. People who will never develop glaucoma may also have risk variants. The most common form, primary open-angle glaucoma, is associated with many genes and other factors, so this test cannot assess it fully. The test does not measure eye pressure and cannot show whether you have glaucoma. Only an ophthalmologist’s examination can establish this.

The test and preparation

The sample is an oral swab: a swab is passed over the inside of the cheek several times. It is painless and takes a minute or two, while the entire visit usually takes around ten minutes. For 30 minutes before the swab, do not eat, drink anything except water, smoke or chew gum. You do not need to fast. Genes do not change during your lifetime, so the test is performed only once.

What your results mean

• No risk variants: the result does not show increased genetic susceptibility, but glaucoma may still develop, especially with age. You should therefore not skip regular eye examinations.
• Risk variants present: this indicates susceptibility, not disease. Many carriers never develop the condition. A doctor may advise starting eye examinations earlier or having them more often.

A doctor, preferably an ophthalmologist, interprets the result alongside an eye examination, measured eye pressure and family history. Free genetic counselling is also available with the result. If you have a family history of glaucoma, short-sightedness or diabetes, or have taken corticosteroids for a long time, an eye examination with pressure measurement is useful regardless of the genetic result.

Urgent: sudden severe eye pain, a red eye, blurred vision, coloured halos around lights, headache and nausea may indicate acute angle-closure glaucoma. Seek emergency care immediately or call 194 or 112.

How to arrange testing

The test is performed without a referral or appointment: a nurse takes the swab at any of our branches (listed on the Contactpage). Prices for all tests and panels are listed in the price list.

Frequently asked questions

Is glaucoma inherited?

Partly. Close relatives of affected people have a higher risk, but the disease develops through multiple genes and other factors, primarily age and eye pressure. Regular eye examinations are most important in a family with glaucoma.

Can a genetic test replace eye pressure measurement?

No. The test shows susceptibility; glaucoma is detected through an ophthalmologist’s examination: eye pressure measurement, assessment of the optic nerve and, if needed, the visual field.

If the result is favourable, do I still need examinations?

Yes. A favourable result does not exclude glaucoma, particularly its most common form, which is influenced by many genes and other factors.

Can glaucoma be prevented?

The disease cannot always be prevented, but sight damage can usually be slowed or stopped if glaucoma is detected early and treated with drops, laser or surgery. Lost sight cannot be restored, so early detection is crucial.