Retrospective analysis of optical coherence tomography (oct) biomarkers predicting visual outcomes in diabetic macular edema.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.51168/he3qyf55Keywords:
Diabetic Macular Edema, Optical Coherence Tomography, OCT Biomarkers, Best Corrected Visual Acuity, Disorganization of Retinal Inner Layers, Ellipsoid ZoneAbstract
Background
Diabetic Macular Edema (DME) is one of the leading causes of visual impairment among patients with diabetic retinopathy. Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) provides detailed retinal imaging and enables the identification of structural biomarkers associated with visual outcomes. This study aimed to evaluate the association between OCT biomarkers and visual outcomes in patients with DME.
Methods
This retrospective observational study was conducted in the Department of Ophthalmology, IQ City Medical College and Hospital, from December 2024 to June 2026. Medical records of 100 patients diagnosed with DME were reviewed. Demographic characteristics, duration of diabetes, Best Corrected Visual Acuity (BCVA), and OCT findings were collected. OCT biomarkers assessed included Central Macular Thickness (CMT), Disorganization of Retinal Inner Layers (DRIL), Hyperreflective Foci (HRF), Ellipsoid Zone (EZ) disruption, and Subretinal Fluid (SRF). Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software, with p < 0.05 considered statistically significant.
Results
A total of 100 patients were included. The mean age was 58.6 ± 9.4 years, with 58% males and 42% females. Increased CMT was observed in 88% of patients, HRF in 65%, DRIL in 52%, EZ disruption in 48%, and SRF in 30%. Significant negative correlations were observed between BCVA and CMT (r = −0.55, p < 0.001), DRIL (r = −0.63, p < 0.001), HRF (r = −0.49, p = 0.002), and EZ disruption (r = −0.68, p < 0.001). SRF demonstrated a weak, non-significant association with visual acuity (r = −0.21, p = 0.084).
Conclusion
OCT biomarkers, particularly DRIL and Ellipsoid Zone disruption, were strongly associated with poor visual outcomes in patients with DME and may serve as reliable prognostic indicators for disease monitoring and individualized treatment planning.
Recommendations
Routine assessment of OCT biomarkers should be incorporated into the clinical evaluation of patients with DME to facilitate early risk stratification and optimize treatment decisions.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Dr . Ipshita Aparajita Nanda (Author)
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