Spontaneous Globe Rupture in End-Stage Glaucoma: A RARE Case of Neglected Chronic Ocular Hypertension

Research Area: Medicine Authors
Tarik ALJASSER* Zineb FILALI Louay SERGHINI El Hassan ABDALLAH
Ophthalmology Department B, specialty hospital RABAT MOROCCO

Abstract
Background: Spontaneous globe rupture (SGR) is a very rare but devastating complication, most often observed in eyes with advanced disease where the scleral wall has become progressively weakened. In long-standing glaucoma, persistently elevated and poorly controlled intraocular pressure (IOP) can gradually thin the sclera and make the eye prone to rupture. Objective: To report the clinical presentation, emergency management, and short-term outcome of a spontaneous globe rupture in a patient with long-standing, poorly controlled glaucoma. Methods: We report the case of a 65-year-old man with a 10-year history of glaucoma treated with triple therapy, who presented to the emergency department with sudden, severe pain and rupture of the right eye. He had stopped using his prescribed medications for approximately two months prior to presentation. Results: The patient underwent emergency evisceration of the affected eye with placement of an ocular prosthesis. Broad-spectrum intravenous antibiotics were started. In the fellow eye, where IOP was markedly elevated, treatment with intravenous acetazolamide (500 mg loading dose, then 250 mg three times daily) and topical antiglaucoma agents led to satisfactory stabilization. Conclusion: Spontaneous globe rupture in chronic glaucoma is rare but represents one of the most severe consequences of poor disease control. This case emphasizes the importance of ongoing patient education and strict adherence to therapy to prevent irreversible, vision-ending complications in advanced glaucoma.

Keywords
Spontaneous Globe Rupture; End-Stage Glaucoma; Ocular Hypertension; Treatment Non-adherence; Evisceration.

Doi : https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17703746

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Cite
ALJASSER, T., FILALI, Z., SERGHINI, L., & ABDALLAH, E. H. (2025). Spontaneous Globe Rupture in End-Stage Glaucoma: A RARE Case of Neglected Chronic Ocular Hypertension. International Journal of Science, Applications and Prosperity, 3(1), 55‑60. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17703746

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Creative Commons Attribution Share Alike 4.0 International

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