Vitreous fluorophotometry in juvenile diabetics after oral fluorescein

Vitreous fluorophotometry was performed in young patients (8 to 19 years old) affected by insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, with no signs of diabetic retinopathy. Oral fluorescein was administered, and measures were used to prevent hypoglycemia during the examination. The results showed a breakdown of the blood-retinal barrier in nine (43%) of the 21 patients. The oral fluorescein method allows a satisfactory evaluation of ocular fluorescence profiles, with minimal risk of systemic side effects.