Given the central role intraocular pressure (IOP) plays in glaucoma care, any technology that can help clinicians better monitor IOP fluctuations would be welcome. An algorithm now in development that tracks readings from a continuous contact lens sensor can estimate the likelihood of fast visual field (VF) glaucoma progression—and it held its own against physician estimates, according to a recent study in the Journal of Glaucoma.

The investigation enrolled 30 open-angle glaucoma patients who were approximately 66 years old and had a baseline mean deviation of about -5.4±5.1. The 24-hour IOP variations were recorded using the contact lens sensor, which was fed to the algorithm, known as the “progression report.” Two masked assessors also estimated the likelihood of fast progression based on clinical data. At least three visual fields were performed over two years following the initial assessment to determine actual progression.

During follow-up, 26.7% of eyes were designated as fast progressors. The algorithm assigned an average risk score of 42% (41% slow vs. 44% fast).

The researchers noted that correlations between the two assessors were good and the algorithm and the averaged assessors’ gradings were identical. Additionally, correlations between mean deviation progression rates, the algorithm and the assessors’ gradings were all quite good.

Continuous contact lens sensor recordings may offer new information that complements conventional exams, the investigators said.