Dr. Maria Imelda Yap-Veloso led ‘Correlation of Macular Ganglion Cell Layer-Inner Plexiform Layer (GCL + IPL) with Circumpapillary Retinal Nerve Fiber Layer in Glaucoma Patients and Glaucoma Suspects’Asian Eye Institute’s pioneering glaucoma study, “Correlation of Macular Ganglion Cell Layer-Inner Plexiform Layer (GCL + IPL) with Circumpapillary Retinal Nerve Fiber Layer in Glaucoma Patients and Glaucoma Suspects,” led by Dr. Maria Imelda Yap-Veloso, has been published in the Clinical Ophthalmology Journal. This international recognition highlights the institute’s commitment to cutting-edge research and excellence in eye care.

The research, conducted by former glaucoma fellow Dr. Marie Jeremy San Pedro under the guidance and supervision of Yap-Veloso, investigates the correlation between the macular ganglion cell layer and the circumpapillary retinal nerve fiber layer in glaucoma suspects and glaucoma patients. Using advanced Cirrus HD-OCT technology, the study provides an in-depth analysis of glaucoma screening and early detection.

The study revealed that assessing both the optic nerve/ retinal nerve fiber layer and the macular ganglion layer (GCL + IPL) offers a more comprehensive method for detecting early glaucoma. This is particularly beneficial for patients that are glaucoma suspects or at high risk for developing glaucoma (elderly patients, positive family history, previous eye trauma or surgery, nearsightedness or farsightedness, history of steroid use, etc.).

This publication marks a significant milestone for Asian Eye, further cementing its reputation as a world-class leader in eye care and research. Being published in an international journal is a rigorous process requiring peer review and validation from global expertise. Since its release worldwide it has been well received, with over 686 views in just one month. This highlights Asian Eye’s role as a training institution that supports research, reflecting its commitment to the highest standards of excellence and innovation in ophthalmology.

The findings from this research have been integrated into Asian Eye’s standard glaucoma screening protocols, signifcantly enhancing the accuracy of early detection. Patients now benefit from earlier and more precise glaucoma diagnosis using this cutting-edge approach.

Yap-Veloso completed her medical degree and ophthalmology residency at the University of the Philippines College of Medicine-Philippine General Hospital (UPCMPGH) and pursued a glaucoma fellowship at Harvard Medical School-Massachusetts Eye and Ear. She is cochair of glaucoma service at Asian Eye and past president of the Philippine Glaucoma Society. Yap-Veloso is currently vice chairman and chief of glaucoma service at the Rizal Medical Center. She is also clinical associate professor at the UPCM and a glaucoma consultant at the Sentro Oftalmologico Jose Rizal, UP-PGH. Her contributions to glaucoma research have been recognized locally and internationally.