Hypertension and diabetic retinopathy: a simple association?
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Published:2013-04-30
Issue:
Volume:
Page:82-87
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ISSN:1877-9352
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Container-title:Italian Journal of Medicine
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language:
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Short-container-title:Ital J Med
Author:
Dalla Vestra Michele,Simioni Natalino,Patrassi Giovanni Maurizio,Fioretto Paola
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diabetes is known to be a major contributor to blindness in industrialized countries in adults. In addition to glycemic control, arterial hypertension is emerging as important factor in the development and progression of diabetic retinopathy. AIM OF THE STUDY This review describes the epidemiologic studies that explored the relationships between hypertension and diabetic retinopathy and the potential pathogenetic mechanisms underlying this association. Finally the effects of antihypertensive treatment in primary and secondary prevention of diabetic retinopathy are discussed. CONCLUSIONS The understanding of the pathogenetic mechanisms and risk factors is crucial to establish effective preventive and treatment strategies.
Publisher
PAGEPress Publications