Effects of Prostaglandin Analogue on the Central Retinal Thickness in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Doi: 10.36351/pjo.v41i1.1839

Abstract

Purpose:  To determine the central macular thickness in patients with type 2 Diabetes using Latanoprost eye drops and to compare with type 2 diabetic patients using Timolol eye drops.

Study Design:  Quasi experimental study.

Place and Duration of Study:  Al-Noaman Teaching Hospital from February 2023 to April 2023.

Methods:  One hundred diabetic patients were divided into two equal groups (Timolol group and Latanoprost group). Visual acuity was tested using Snellen chart, IOP was measured with Goldmann Applanation Tonometer, central corneal thickness (CCT) measurement was done to correct IOP for CCT.  Optical coherence tomography (OCT) was used to measure central retinal thickness (CRT).

Results:  The mean age of Timolol group was 57.91±1.6 years, which was very close to the mean age of Latanoprost group (57.57±1.63 years). There were 30 females and 20 males in each group. HbA1Cwas 8.99±0.47% in Timolol and 6.28±0.08% in Latanoprost group (p <0.001). The IOP showed statistically lower levels in Timolol group in comparison to Latanoprost group, 28.81±0.93 mmHg in comparison to 29.56±1.04 mmHg, respectively. In Timolol group, visual acuity significantly improved, the IOP was reduced, and the CRT was significantly lowered. However, in Latanoprost group, the pre and post treatment values showed that only the IOP significantly improved. Visual acuity and CRT were statistically and clinically the same.

Conclusion:  Latanoprost may increase the central retinal thickness in diabetic patients without diabetic macular edema, however the rationale for stopping the medication in low-risk patients is still lacking.