What would be the likely finding in a patient with chronic glaucoma on an eye exam?

In patients with chronic glaucoma, particularly open-angle glaucoma, elevated intraocular pressure is a hallmark finding during an eye examination. Glaucoma is characterized by an increase in pressure within the eye, which can lead to damage of the optic nerve and result in loss of vision over time. This increased intraocular pressure arises from an imbalance between the production and drainage of aqueous humor, which is essential for maintaining eye shape and function.

Regular monitoring of intraocular pressure is crucial in diagnosing and managing glaucoma, as many patients may be asymptomatic during the early stages of the disease. The pressure is measured using tonometry during the eye exam, and consistently elevated readings are indicative of the condition. Therefore, identifying elevated intraocular pressure is directly linked to the pathological process in chronic glaucoma, reinforcing the importance of recognizing this finding during an eye examination.