DIABETIC AND HYPERTENSIVE RETINOPATHIES: CLINICAL FINDINGS AND MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES

Abstract

Systemic Arterial Hypertension (SAH) and Diabetes Mellitus (DM) are chronic non-communicable diseases with high morbidity and mortality rates in Brazil and worldwide. Both conditions can lead to significant ocular changes, such as hypertensive retinopathy and diabetic retinopathy, which share mechanisms like endothelial injury, inflammation, and microvascular dysfunction. Hypertensive retinopathy results from prolonged exposure to elevated blood pressure, leading to findings such as arteriolar narrowing, hemorrhages, and exudates. In contrast, diabetic retinopathy arises from chronic hyperglycemia and is classified into non-proliferative and proliferative forms, which may progress to macular edema and neovascularization.  This study aimed to review, through a narrative literature review, the main clinical, pathophysiological, and therapeutic aspects of these conditions, as well as to highlight the importance of early screening. The research was conducted using the PubMed, Scielo, and Google Scholar databases, focusing on publications from the last ten years.  Findings indicate that early diagnosis through examinations such as fundus photography and optical coherence tomography (OCT), combined with blood pressure and glycemic control, is essential to prevent severe visual complications. Treatment includes pharmacological therapies, surgeries, and lifestyle modifications. It is concluded that preventing blindness from these retinopathies depends on the integration of primary care and ophthalmology, as well as ensuring population access to specialized care.