Axial myopia and its influence on diabetic retinopathy.

OBJECTIVE To evaluate the correlation between axial myopia and diabetic retinopathy. STUDY DESIGN Cross-sectional study. PLACE AND DURATION OF STUDY Eye Department of Postgraduate Medical Institute, Lahore General Hospital, from August 2012 to February 2013. METHODOLOGY A total of 258 participants suffering from type-2 diabetic retinopathy were included. Axial length was measured by two optometrists using contact type ultrasound biometer. Colored retinal photographs, red free retinal photographs and Fundus Fluorescein Angiography (FFA) were performed on all patients using standard fundus camera. All fundus photographs and angiograms were independently reviewed and graded by two qualified vitreoretinal fellows. RESULTS Out of 258 patients, 163 were males (63.2%) and 95 (36.8%) were females. Average age of patients was 56.30±7.57 years. Average axial length of right and left eyes were 23.16 mm and 23.15 mm respectively. There was statistically significant negative correlation between axial length and severity of diabetic retinopathy in the right eye, (Spearman correlation=-0.511, p=0.0001) as well as the left eye (Spearman correlation=-0.522, p=0.0001). CONCLUSION There is a protective influence of longer axial length of globe on the stage and severity of diabetic retinopathy. This study may help in modifying the screening protocol for diabetic retinopathy amongst patients of differing axial lengths.