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Contrast sensitivity function in patients with impaired oral glucose tolerance
S P Gartaganis1, A J Psyrojannis, J X Koliopoulos
1Department of Ophthalmology, University of Patras Medical School, Greece. ifigenia@hol.gr
Summary
Patients with impaired oral glucose tolerance tests (OGTT) show significantly reduced contrast sensitivity. This visual impairment suggests that newer diabetic criteria may better identify individuals with abnormal visual function.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Endocrinology
- Visual Science
Background:
- Impaired oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) is a precursor to type 2 diabetes.
- Visual function, specifically contrast sensitivity, may be affected by glucose metabolism abnormalities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare contrast sensitivity function in individuals with impaired OGTT versus normal controls.
- To assess the relationship between glucose intolerance and visual performance.
Main Methods:
- Contrast sensitivity was measured at four spatial frequencies in 16 patients with impaired OGTT and 11 normal subjects.
- Impaired glucose tolerance was diagnosed using the 1985 World Health Organization (WHO) criteria.
Main Results:
- No significant differences were observed between groups in age, visual acuity, refractive correction, or lens opacities.
- A statistically significant reduction in contrast sensitivity was found across all tested spatial frequencies in the impaired OGTT group (p < 0.001).
Conclusions:
- Functional visual loss in impaired OGTT patients suggests potential diabetic complications.
- The 1997 American Diabetes Association (ADA) criteria appear more effective in identifying individuals with abnormal visual function compared to older WHO criteria.