RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN DIABETES MELLITUS AND GLAUCOMA: PATHOPHYSIOLOGY, RISK FACTORS AND MULTIDIMENSIONAL THERAPEUTIC APPROACHES

• DOI: https://doi.org/10.22533/at.ed.159542514017

• Palavras-chave: Diabetes Mellitus, Glaucoma, Risk Factors.

• Keywords: Diabetes Mellitus, Glaucoma, Risk Factors.

• Abstract:

  Objective: To investigate the relationship between diabetes mellitus (DM) and the increased risk of developing glaucoma, analyzing pathophysiology, prevalence, diagnostic methods and specific treatment strategies. Methodology: Structured bibliographic review based on the PVO strategy. The search was carried out in the PubMed/MEDLINE database, using the terms "diabetes mellitus", "diabetes", "mellitus", "glaucoma" and "glaucomas", combined with the Boolean operators AND and OR. Thirteen articles were selected for critical analysis. Discussion: Diabetes mellitus is considered a risk factor for increased intraocular pressure (IOP) and vascular dysfunction, although there are conflicting data on its direct impact on the development of primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG). Insulin plays a protective role in retinal ganglion cells and has an anti-inflammatory action, but it is not enough to prevent cell damage. According to some studies, metformin is associated with a reduction in the risk of GPAA, while others have found no significant impact. Neovascular glaucoma is treated with panretinal photocoagulation and intravitreal injections of anti-VEGF agents, which reduce IOP and prevent irreversible damage. However, a multidimensional approach, including strict glycemic control, is essential, considering the stage of the disease and the underlying conditions. Final thoughts: More robust research is needed to validate the efficacy of specific drugs. However, early screening for diabetic retinopathy remains an essential strategy to optimize early diagnosis and improve effective preventive approaches.