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Diabetic Retinopathy (Endocrine Approach)

Microvascular retinal damage from chronic hyperglycemia is the leading cause of acquired blindness in working-age adults.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Endokrinoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Diabetic Retinopathy (Endocrine Approach)?

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is the most common microvascular complication of diabetes; it develops in approximately 30-40% of T1DM and T2DM patients. Hyperglycemia damages retinal capillary pericytes and endothelium, leading to microaneurysms, exudates, hemorrhages, and ischemia.

Clinical staging: non-proliferative DR (mild/moderate/severe) → proliferative DR (neovascularization) → diabetic macular edema (DME). Vision loss usually occurs in the proliferative stage and DME; vitreous hemorrhage and tractional retinal detachment are sight-threatening.

Endocrinology approach: HbA1c <7%, blood pressure <130/80, LDL <100, fenofibrate (FIELD/ACCORD evidence), annual fundus screening from year 5 in T1DM and from diagnosis in T2DM. Anti-VEGF (ranibizumab, aflibercept), pan-retinal photocoagulation, and vitrectomy are ophthalmology interventions.

Symptoms

Blurred vision and decreased visual acuity
Floaters and dark spots in vision
Sudden vision loss (vitreous hemorrhage)
Distortion of straight lines (macular edema)
Reduced color perception
Asymptomatic in early stages (importance of screening)

Risk Factors

Long diabetes duration (>10 years)
Poor glycemic control (high HbA1c)
Hypertension
Dyslipidemia (high LDL)
Pregnancy (rapid progression)
Diabetic nephropathy

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Annual fundus examination (mandatory)
  • Sudden vision loss (urgent)
  • Floaters and flashes of light
  • Distortion of straight lines
  • Within 1 year of diabetes diagnosis (T2DM)
  • Within first trimester of pregnancy

Treatment Methods

01
HbA1c <7% target (DCCT/UKPDS evidence)
02
Blood pressure <130/80 mmHg
03
LDL <100, fenofibrate adjunctive
04
Anti-VEGF intravitreal injection (ranibizumab/aflibercept)
05
Pan-retinal laser photocoagulation
06
Vitrectomy (vitreous hemorrhage, tractional detachment)

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Endokrinoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.