OCULAR EFFECT
OF SYSTEMIC DISEASES: THE HYPERTENSIVE AND DIABETIC RETINOPATHIES.
The epidemiological pattern and distribution of
Hypertension and diabetes is changing in the developing world, particularly as
dietary patterns become more and more westernized. With the attendant increase
in the prevalence of these two diseases, ocular involvement becomes more
frequently seen in clinical practice. It is important therefore for the
optometrist to be able to identify early and advanced ocular signs of these
diseases particularly since visual difficulty may be the first presentation.
In this lecture, the epidemiology,
pathophysiology, clinical grading of signs and treatment are discussed, and a
comparison of fundus changes in the two conditions is also undertaken. The
classification of diabetic retinopathy into Non proliferative disease, and
clinically significant macular edema is discussed. The grading of hypertension
by the Scheie and the Keith-Wegener-Baker system is also described. The
potentiation of one condition by the other is highlighted.
Finally, special emphasis is placed on how
optometrists can more easily identify these lesions and refer appropriately.
Dr. Femi Babalola
FWCS
