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Inflammation and endothelial dysfunction are associated with retinopathy: the Hoorn Study
M V van Hecke1, J M Dekker, G Nijpels
1Department of Ophthalmology, VU University Medical Centre, P.O. Box 7057, 1007 MB, Amsterdam, The Netherlands. m.vanhecke@vumc.nl
Diabetologia
|May 27, 2005
Summary
Inflammation and endothelial dysfunction are linked to retinopathy in both diabetic and non-diabetic individuals. Elevated inflammatory markers and endothelial dysfunction scores indicate a higher risk of retinopathy.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Cardiovascular Science
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Diabetic retinopathy and retinopathy in non-diabetic individuals share complex pathogenesis.
- Chronic inflammation and vascular endothelial dysfunction are implicated in retinopathy development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, and prevalent retinopathy.
- To compare these associations in individuals with and without type 2 diabetes.
Main Methods:
- A population-based cohort study of 625 individuals aged 50-74 years.
- Assessment of retinopathy via ophthalmological examination and fundus photography.
- Measurement of inflammatory markers (CRP, sICAM-1) and endothelial dysfunction markers (sVCAM-1, von Willebrand factor), combined into z scores.
Main Results:
- Retinopathy prevalence positively correlated with C-reactive protein (CRP) and soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (sICAM-1).
- Higher inflammation scores were associated with retinopathy in all subjects (OR=2.2).
- Endothelial dysfunction scores were associated with retinopathy in diabetic individuals (OR=4.4) but not non-diabetic individuals.
Conclusions:
- Inflammatory activity and endothelial dysfunction are significantly associated with retinopathy.
- These findings suggest a role for inflammation and endothelial dysfunction in the pathogenesis of retinopathy across different glucose tolerance statuses.