Microvasculature and Nerve Fiber Layer-Ganglion Cell Inner Plexiform Layer Thickness in Type 2 Diabetes

Abstract

Purpose: To investigate thickness of the nerve fiber layer-ganglion cell inner plexiform layer (NFL-GCIPL) complex and vessel density of the superficial and deep retinal vessels and choriocapillaris using swept source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT) and angiography (OCTA) in type 2 diabetic patients without diabetic retinopathy (DR). Methods: Sixty-four eyes of type 2 diabetic patients without DR were included. A control group of 54 eyes without diabetes was also recruited. All patients underwent multimodal imaging evaluation using SS-OCT and OCTA. Results: Vessel density of the superficial and deep retinal vessels was not different between the study and control groups. A significant decrease in NFL-GCIPL complex thickness was observed in the study group compared to the control group. NFL-GCIPL thickness of the macula decreased with increased duration of diabetes. Conclusions: These results suggest that neurodegeneration might be an early change in the development of DR.