Serotonin levels in aqueous humor of patients with primary open-angle glaucoma
2008

Serotonin Levels in Glaucoma Patients

Sample size: 60 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Zanon-Moreno V., Melo P., Mendes-Pinto M.M., Alves C.J., Garcia-Medina J.J., Vinuesa-Silva I., Moreno-Nadal M.A., Pinazo-Duran M.D.

Primary Institution: Dr. Peset University Hospital, Valencia, Spain

Hypothesis

The study aims to evaluate the levels of serotonin and its metabolite in the aqueous humor of patients with primary open-angle glaucoma compared to those with cataracts.

Conclusion

Patients with primary open-angle glaucoma have lower levels of serotonin and higher levels of its metabolite, 5-HIAA, compared to cataract patients.

Supporting Evidence

  • 5-HT levels were lower in glaucoma patients compared to cataract patients.
  • 5-HIAA levels were significantly higher in glaucoma patients.
  • The study involved 60 patients, evenly split between glaucoma and cataract groups.

Takeaway

This study looked at the levels of a brain chemical called serotonin in the eyes of people with glaucoma and found that those with glaucoma had less serotonin but more of its breakdown product.

Methodology

A case-control study comparing 30 patients with primary open-angle glaucoma to 30 patients with cataracts, measuring serotonin and 5-HIAA levels in aqueous humor using HPLC.

Participant Demographics

30 glaucoma patients (mean age 71.3 years, 43% male) and 30 cataract patients (mean age 73.5 years, 40% male).

Statistical Information

P-Value

p=0.001 for 5-HIAA levels, p=0.820 for serotonin levels

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication