What is the recommended follow-up interval for a low-risk ocular hypertension patient who has remained stable for several years?

• A. 1 Month
• B. 6 Weeks
• C. 12 Months
• D. 24 Months

Answer: (C)

For ocular hypertension that is low-risk and has been stable for years, the monitoring interval is annual. The idea is that progression in low-risk cases tends to be slow, so checking once a year is usually enough to detect meaningful changes without overburdening the patient with frequent visits. At each visit you’d reassess intraocular pressure, inspect the optic nerve for changes in cupping or notching, review retinal nerve fiber layer status, and consider visual field testing if indicated. Shorter intervals (monthly or every 6 weeks) are typically reserved for cases with signs of progression, fluctuating pressure, or recent treatment changes, while waiting two years between checks could miss gradual progression. Therefore, about every 12 months is the best balance for a stable, low-risk ocular hypertension patient.