Differences of the lamina cribrosa between primary open angle glaucoma and non-pathologic high myopia

Primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) is a chronic, blinding ocular disorder characterized by progressive degeneration of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). Its incidence and prevalence of blindness continue to increase with global population aging. Non-pathologic high myopia (HM) has been established as an independent risk factor for POAG, and the two conditions share similar structural changes in the lamina cribrosa (LC) during the early phase of optic nerve injury. This review summarizes the common and distinct pathological alterations of LC in POAG and HM, with the aim of clarifying its central role in the initiation and progression of optic nerve damage. Elucidating these similarities and differences may facilitate early detection and targeted intervention strategies for at-risk individuals from a structural perspective.