For an OHTN/suspect, what IOP range should we select?

• A. 10-15
• B. 12-16
• C. high teens to low twenties (~18-23)
• D. 25-30

Answer: (C)

The important idea here is choosing a target IOP that lowers risk without overshooting to a value that could harm eye perfusion. For an ocular hypertension suspect, you want a modest reduction that brings IOP into the middle of the normal range. This balances reducing the chance of progression with keeping enough pressure to maintain good blood flow to the optic nerve.

If you aim too low, you risk hypotony and reduced ocular perfusion, which can damage the optic nerve or cause other issues. If you aim too high, the risk of progression remains. So the best target for an OHTN/suspect is a middle-ground pressure—lower than the baseline but still comfortably within the normal range—providing meaningful protection while minimizing downsides.