Abstract | AIM: METHODS: Two randomized age- and sex-matched groups (cases and controls) of 12 diabetics (five Type 1 and seven Type 2) were selected for this pilot study and graded for retinopathy (Early Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy Study-Airlie House Classification). Cases were treated with acetazolamide for three months according to a standard protocol. The Early Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy Study chart was used for assessing far-best corrected visual-acuity, and fluorescein angiography was performed using the Heidelberg Retina Angiograph. The Amsler grid-test and computerized-perimetry (Octopus 2000R) were also performed. RESULTS:
Fluorescein-angiographic findings and perimetric data improved significantly (p < 0.01) in the acetazolamide-treated cases compared to the controls while visual-acuity varied only slightly (p > 0.01). The Amsler grid-test resulted insignificant in our study (p > 0.05). No adverse effects or significant variations in laboratory tests were recorded. CONCLUSION: Further clinical investigations involving larger numbers of patients and a longer follow-up are required to confirm these preliminary results. However, the present study seems to suggest that acetazolamide could be effective in reducing fluorescein-angiographic findings and improving perimetric data in diabetics with macular edema, even though the mechanism of action remains obscure. Visual-acuity varied only slightly.
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Authors | C Giusti, R Forte, E M Vingolo, P Gargiulo |
Journal | International ophthalmology
(Int Ophthalmol)
Vol. 24
Issue 2
Pg. 79-88
( 2001)
ISSN: 0165-5701 [Print] Netherlands |
PMID | 12201348
(Publication Type: Clinical Trial, Comparative Study, Journal Article, Randomized Controlled Trial)
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Chemical References |
- Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors
- Acetazolamide
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Topics |
- Acetazolamide
(therapeutic use)
- Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors
(therapeutic use)
- Comorbidity
- Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1
(complications)
- Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2
(complications)
- Diabetic Retinopathy
(diagnosis, drug therapy)
- Disease Progression
- Female
- Fluorescein Angiography
- Fundus Oculi
- Humans
- Macular Edema
(diagnosis, drug therapy)
- Male
- Middle Aged
- Pilot Projects
- Visual Acuity
- Visual Fields
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