The retinal nerve fibre layer thickness slope: a localised biomarker of the structure–function relationship in early glaucoma
By
Stefan Steiner
Florian Frommlet
Florian Schwarzhans
Georg Fischer
Maximilian Pirrung
Michael Pircher
Christoph Hitzenberger
Clemens Vass
July 1, 2026
Clinical Scorecard: Slope of Retinal Nerve Fiber Layer Thickness: A Focused Biomarker for Assessing Structure-Function Dynamics in Early Glaucoma
At a Glance
Category Detail
Condition Glaucoma Key Mechanisms Local RNFL thickness slope (RNFL-S) reflects ganglion cell population and correlates with visual field sensitivity. Target Population Individuals aged 18-79 with early glaucoma and healthy controls. Care Setting Ophthalmology and Optometry departments in a clinical research setting.
Key Highlights
RNFL-S is a novel biomarker for assessing focal glaucomatous damage. Significant local correlation between RNFL-S and visual field sensitivity in early glaucoma. Conventional structural measures may overlook localized damage. Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
Use RNFL-S for improved structure-function mapping in glaucoma. Management
Monitor RNFL-S alongside traditional OCT parameters for better assessment. Monitoring & Follow-up
Evaluate changes in RNFL-S to track disease progression. Risks
Consider variability in visual field tests and patient cooperation. Patient & Prescribing Data
Patients with early glaucoma and healthy individuals.
Further research needed to determine clinical utility of RNFL-S.
Clinical Best Practices
Incorporate RNFL-S in routine glaucoma assessments. Utilize OCT for objective imaging of retinal structures. Related Resources & Content
