Ophthalmic manifestations of endocrine disorders: approaches and medical management

Ophthalmic clues to the endocrine disorders

PURPOSE

Eye is a vital sense organ and reflects the physical and mental wellbeing of a person. Detailed examination of the eye is an essential part in the clinical evaluation of patients with any systemic disorder. The interaction between ophthalmologists and endocrinologists is often limited to Graves' ophthalmopathy and diabetic retinopathy. However, there are many ophthalmic manifestations, which are characteristically seen in endocrine disorders. In this review, we shall discuss the ocular manifestations of the endocrine syndromes excluding the Graves' ophthalmopathy and diabetic retinopathy.

METHODS

We performed a PubMed search of articles published in English showing the ophthalmic features in the endocrine disorders. Relevant cited articles were also retrieved.

RESULTS

Most of the publications included in the review were case reports and review articles. Many endocrine disorders have characteristic manifestations pertaining to the various structures of the eye. The involvement is seen from the external structures of the eye to the inner most layers of the retina. Many ocular-endocrine syndromes also exist with characteristic clues to the clinical diagnosis.

CONCLUSION

The endocrinologists need to be aware of these ocular signs that help in the early diagnosis of the underlying disorder. A syndromic approach is essential in the diagnosis of endocrinopathy in patients presenting with ophthalmic features.

Ophthalmic features of systemic diseases

The eye is intricately integrated with the functions of the body. Ocular changes may precede or run concurrently with various systemic conditions and often represent important prognostic indicators of disease progression. In addition to a thorough diagnostic evaluation and treatment of underlying processes, individuals with systemic diseases and concurrent ocular changes may need comprehensive ophthalmic examination to reduce the risk of visual impairment and morbidity. In this review the authors highlight the clinically relevant ocular signs that occur parallel with systemic conditions. In particular, the study focuses on the varied clinical presentations that can lead to rapid diagnosis to improve management of eye disorders that accompany systemic diseases.