Frequency of Retinopathy in Diagnosed Patients of Hypertension

Abstract

Background: By definition, systolic blood pressure ?140 mmHg and/or diastolic blood pressure ?90 mmHg, measured on at least 2 separate occasions in a seated position during outpatient visits, irrespective of antihypertensive therapy, constitute hypertension. Persistent hypertension is associated with microvascular complications, including hypertensive retinopathy. Objective:  To determine the frequency of hypertensive retinopathy among diagnosed hypertensive patients presenting to a tertiary care hospital in Lahore. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional descriptive study in the Medical Outpatient Department (OPD) of Fatima Memorial Hospital, Lahore. A total of 260 diagnosed hypertensive patients were included. All participants underwent clinical evaluation, including fundoscopic examination, to assess for hypertensive retinopathy. Results: Out of 260 patients, hypertensive retinopathy was identified in 189 (72.7%) patients, while 71 (27.3%) showed no evidence of retinal changes. Conclusion: A high frequency of hypertensive retinopathy was observed among patients with hypertension. Routine dilated fundoscopic examination is recommended to detect early retinal changes, which may reduce morbidity and prevent systemic complications.