Case Series: Retrospective Review of Incidental Retinal Emboli Found on Diabetic Retinopathy Screening: Is There a Benefit to Referral for Work-Up and Possible Management?

• Published in: Clinical diabetes Vol. 26; no. 4; p. 179
• Main Authors: Ahmed, Rehan, Khetpal, Vijay, Merin, Lawrence M, Chomsky, Amy S
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States American Diabetes Association 01.10.2008
• Subjects: Blood clots; Blood vessels; Cardiovascular disease; Care and treatment; Case studies; Complications and side effects; Diabetes; Diabetic retinopathy; Diagnosis; Health aspects; Management decisions; Mortality; Patient outcomes; Patients; Retinal diseases; Risk factors; Studies; Surgery; United States
• ISSN: 0891-8929; 1945-4953
• DOI: 10.2337/diaclin.26.4.179

What is the cost-effectiveness of further imaging studies after the incidental detection of retinal arteriolar emboli? STUDY DESCRIPTION Research Design and Methods We conducted a retrospective chart review of all patients presenting to diabetic retinopathy screening clinics at the Nashville and Murfreesboro Tennessee Veterans Administration (VA) Hospitals during the period of 1 May 2003 to 30 September 2006. CLINICAL PEARLS * Diabetic patients with retinal emboli may have an even higher risk of stroke, cardiovascular disease, and mortality than those with diabetes alone. * The detection of incidental emboli found when screening for diabetic retinopathy provides an important opportunity to initiate further work-up and management. * The management of retinal arteriolar emboli includes the identification of risk factors and possible treatment with antiplatelet medication or vascular surgery.