Premium
Retinal vessels as biomarkers
Author(s) -
SCHMETTERER L
Publication year - 2012
Publication title -
acta ophthalmologica
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.534
H-Index - 87
eISSN - 1755-3768
pISSN - 1755-375X
DOI - 10.1111/j.1755-3768.2012.2861.x
Subject(s) - retinal , caliber , dyslipidemia , medicine , diabetes mellitus , ophthalmology , endothelial dysfunction , vasodilation , cardiology , endocrinology , materials science , metallurgy
Purpose In the recent years much interest was directed towards the analysis of retinal vessel diameters. This is related to our improved understanding of the systemic, ocular, environmental and genetic factors that control retinal vascular calibers. Methods Methods to assess retinal vessel diameters are described. In addition, more sophisticated analyses of vessel structure are presented based on fractional analysis. Finally, techniques to study retinal vascular responses during stimulation, such as diffuse flicker light, are presented. Results Narrower retinal arteriolar caliber is associated with aging, systemic hypertension and obesity. Wider retinal venular caliber is associated with impaired fasting glucose and diabetes, dyslipidemia and cigarette smoking. In addition, wider venular calibers are considered markers of inflammation and endothelial dysfunction. Reduced flicker‐induced vasodilatation is an early process in diabetes. Conclusion Assessment of retinal vessel diameters is an interesting approach for risk stratification based on ophthalmological findings. Refined technology and longitudinal studies are required to fully explore the potential of these techniques.