The impact of CPAP on nocturnal IOP
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The impact of continuous positive airway pressure on nocturnal intraocular pressure in people with obstructive sleep apnoea with and without primary open-angle glaucoma. \n
IRAS ID
201358
Contact name
Ian Smith
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
R&D, Papworth Hospital
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 2 months, 30 days
Research summary
Lowering of the pressure in the eye (intraocular pressure, IOP) is the only proven treatment for Primary Open-angle Glaucoma (POAG). However, even effective reduction of IOP by pharmacological or surgical means does not always change the course of the disease or prevent the onset of glaucoma. Some people with POAG also suffer from Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA), a common sleep disorder which is known to affect heart and blood vessels, and may contribute to glaucoma progression. OSA is treated with Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP); however using this type of breathing support may raise IOP. The evidence for this is limited and the potential mechanisms involved are poorly understood.\nTo investigate this issue we have designed two separate studies. In this application we are seeking approval for the second study which aims to determine whether CPAP applied at night changes IOP and ocular perfusion pressure (OPP). Two groups of patients will be included: those with POAG and OSA, and those with OSA without glaucoma. They will attend for two overnight assessments: the first before starting CPAP and the second 4-6 weeks into CPAP treatment. In addition, retinal oxygen levels and ocular blood flow will be measured in the morning followed by daytime self-measurement of IOP at home.\nThis research will provide important data to guide treatment of OSA in people with Glaucoma. If CPAP is shown to raise IOP or alter OPP it will be necessary to assess available alternative treatment options for OSA. However, if CPAP does not have a detrimental effect on them, this would support our aim to assess the long-term effects of CPAP, most probably in the form of a randomised interventional trial, informed by the findings of this study. \nThis study will be conducted at Papworth Hospital in collaboration with the Department of Ophthalmology at Hinchingbrooke Hospital.\n
REC name
East of England - Cambridge South Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
16/EE/0074
Date of REC Opinion
30 Mar 2016
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion