Heterogeneity in arterial hypertension and ocular perfusion pressure definitions: Towards a consensus on blood pressure-related parameters for glaucoma studies

Purpose Glaucoma studies have long taken into account the blood pressure (BP) status of patients. This study summarizes and evaluates the impact of the different criteria that have been used for BP-related variables in glaucoma research. Methods Studies included in two meta-analyses that reviewed the role of BP in glaucoma were analyzed. Additional studies published after the search periods of the meta-analyses were also included. Criteria for the definition of arterial hypertension and other BP-related variables, such as mean arterial pressure (MAP) and mean ocular perfusion pressure (MOPP), were retrieved. Results Sixty-four studies were evaluated. One-third used 140 mmHg as a systolic BP cut-off to define hypertension, 20% used 160 mmHg and the remaining half used various other criteria. Less than 20% of studies reported MAP and/or MOPP. While eight of the ten studies reporting MAP used a correct formula that only happened for five of the eleven studies reporting MOPP. Using as an example average blood pressure values, incorrectly used formulas could have led to an overestimation of more than 100% of the expected values. Conclusion Considerable heterogeneity exists in BP-related variables in glaucoma research and different definitions can lead to large disparities. Glaucoma research would benefit from a consensus regarding blood pressure parameters.