Diabetic papillopathy

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Overview

Diabetic papillopathy (DP) is rare disease to the optic nerve head or optic disc which can be seen in patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. DP is known also as diabetic papillitis and it was first discovered in type 1 diabetic patients in 1971.[1] Patients present with fluid buildup or swelling of the optic disc. Most of the time DP is unilateral and the symptoms are blurred vision, and mild vision loss.

Causes

The main causes of retinopathy are:

Type 1 and type 2 diabetes

Rapid changes in blood sugar levels either up or down

Prognosis

In most cases diabetic papillopathy resolves on its own within a few months with no permanent vision loss. It’s important to keep treating diabetes to prevent future complications.

Treatment

Currently there are no specific treatments for diabetic papillopathy. The main goal is to manage diabetes. There are few studies that showed some improvements with periocular steroid injection but more studies are required.

Related chapters

References

  1. Lubow M, Makley TA (1971). "Pseudopapilledema of juvenile diabetes mellitus". Arch Ophthalmol. 85 (4): 417–22. doi:10.1001/archopht.1971.00990050419004. PMID 5554869.