Predictive value of the Triglyceride-Glucose index in diabetic macular edema: A comparative analysis with HbA1c

To examine the correlation between the Triglyceride-Glucose index (TyG) and the presence of diabetic macular edema (DME), is a microvascular consequence of diabetes, and to examine its predictive power in comparison with hemoglobin A1c test (HbA1c).

A total of 101 patients were enrolled in the research study. The study participants were divided into three groups: patients with DME (n = 34); patients diagnosed with diabetes mellitus but without DME (DM) (n = 34); and a healthy control group (n = 33). The laboratory findings, demographic information and ophthalmological examination results of all individuals were recorded retrospectively. Diabetic retinopathy and macular edema subtypes were clinically classified. Biochemical parameters and HbA1c values were examined for all participants and calculation of the TyG index was carried out. Statistical analyses included ANOVA, the t-test, correlation analysis, regression analysis and ROC analysis.

The highest TyG index values were seen in the DME patient group, and a significant difference was noted between this group and the others (8.5 ± 0.59; p < 0.001). Nevertheless, no statistically notable variation was found in the HbA1c averages of the DM and DME subgroups (p = 0.61). According to the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, the two indices, TyG and HbA1c, were found to have equivalent discriminatory capabilities in identifying the presence of DME (AUC: 0.759-0.760, p < 0.001, respectively). Statistical analysis using a logistical regression model revealed that the TyG index was a statistically significant risk factor for DME (OR = 6.99, p = 0.03).

The TyG index is an important indicator of microvascular complications and metabolic stress. When used alongside HbA1c, the TyG index has been shown to provide clinical benefits as a complementary biomarker for assessing metabolic control in patients with DME. Therefore, managing TyG values alongside HbA1c is recommended as a secondary treatment target.