Affiliation:
1. University of Turin
2. Vita-Salute San Raffaele University
Abstract
Abstract
Diabetic macular edema (DME) is a common complication of diabetic retinopathy (DR) and a leading cause of visual impairment. Recent advancements in imaging technologies, particularly structural optical coherence tomography (OCT), have improved the understanding of DME pathophysiology and provided valuable biomarkers for disease progression and visual outcomes.
However, the relationship between these retinal biomarkers and reading performance in patients with DME is still unclear.
This prospective study aimed to investigate the association between specific retinal biomarkers identified through OCT imaging and reading performance metrics in patients with previously treated persistent versus resolved DME and good visual acuity. Forty-nine eyes from 35 patients with a history of DME were enrolled. Reading performance was assessed using the Radner reading charts, which include standardized sentences with geometrically progressing print sizes. Structural alterations in the inner and outer retina, as well as the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), were graded based on OCT images.
The results showed that reading performance, measured as maximum reading speed and reading acuity score, was associated with specific retinal biomarkers. The disruption of the ellipsoid zone (EZ) in the parafoveal region and the presence of disorganization of the inner retinal layers (DRIL) in the parafovea were correlated with reduced reading speed. These associations were independent of the presence of intraretinal or subretinal fluid. On the other hand, the reading acuity score was mainly associated with distance visual acuity.
These findings highlight the discrepancy between best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and reading performance in patients with DME. The presence of specific retinal biomarkers, such as EZ disruption and DRIL, can significantly impact reading speed in these patients, even with good visual acuity. Understanding the relationship between retinal biomarkers and reading performance could contribute to a comprehensive evaluation of visual function and quality of life in patients with DME, leading to better management strategies and treatment outcomes.
Publisher
Research Square Platform LLC
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