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Children with diabetes exhibit decreased color sensitivity
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SEATTLE – Children with type 1 diabetes mellitus had significantly higher mean color detection thresholds and higher mean total and inner retinal thickness when compared to controls, according to a study presented here at the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology meeting.
Lakshmi Bodduluri , a PhD student at the School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of New South Wales, and colleagues compared 24 children with type 1 diabetes with 24 healthy controls between the ages of 9 and 14 years.
Color and contrast thresholds were evaluated with “iPad-based vision testing that is cognitively demanding and engaging for children,” Bodduluri said, retinal thickness was evaluated with the iVue SD-OCT (Optovue), nonmydriatic fundus photography was performed, and blood glucose level was measured.
The researchers found significantly higher color thresholds, but not contrast thresholds, in the children with diabetes. Total and inner retinal thickness, but not retinal nerve fiber layer or ganglion cell complex thickness, was greater in these children as well, according to the study.
The researchers concluded that “abnormalities in color vision and retinal thickness in children with type 1 diabetes mellitus may precede the development of visible retinopathy changes.” – by Nancy Hemphill, ELS, FAAO
Reference:
Bodduluri L, et al. Visual functions and retinal thickness in children with type 1 diabetes mellitus. Presented at: Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology meeting; May 1-5, 2016; Seattle.
Disclosure: Bodduluri reports no relevant financial disclosures. She is supported by the University International Postgraduate Award from the University of New South Wales.