Update on diabetic retinopathy during pregnancy.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Endocrinology
• Maternal-Fetal Medicine

Background:

• Diabetes mellitus (DM) causes vascular and neurological complications, including diabetic retinopathy (DR).
• Pregnancy is an independent risk factor for DR development and progression.
• Pregnancy-induced physiological changes can exacerbate DR, posing public health challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an updated overview of diabetic retinopathy (DR) in pregnant women.
• To elucidate the epidemiology, characteristics, risk factors, and pathophysiology of DR during pregnancy.
• To analyze pregnancy outcomes in women with DR to improve maternal and neonatal health.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis of recent research on diabetic retinopathy and pregnancy.
• Analysis of epidemiological data, risk factors, and pathophysiological mechanisms.
• Evaluation of maternal and neonatal outcomes associated with DR in pregnancy.

Main Results:

• Pregnancy significantly influences the development and progression of diabetic retinopathy (DR).
• Specific pathophysiological pathways link pregnancy to DR worsening.
• Adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes are associated with DR in pregnancy.

Conclusions:

• A comprehensive understanding of DR in pregnant women is essential for risk mitigation.
• Improved management strategies are needed to minimize vision loss and adverse outcomes.
• Further research can enhance maternal and neonatal health for women with DR.