Ophthalmic manifestations of endocrine disorders: approaches and medical management

Disorders of the endocrine system may present with various ophthalmic signs, symptoms, and pathology. Early detection, prevention, and monitoring of these manifestations can significantly benefit morbidity associated with such disease states including permanent visual dysfunction.

Several studies highlight the importance of early diagnosis in reducing the long-term complications associated with these endocrine conditions, although these observations are mostly based on case reports and case series.

This review will focus on the connection of endocrine-related disease states with the development of specific ophthalmic pathology and is geared towards the general medical practitioner. The focus of the treating physician should be on facilitating early diagnosis to prevent potentially blinding complications.