PERIODICITY AND APPLICABILITY OF FUNDOSCOPY IN DIABETIC RETINOPATHY

Abstract

The study addresses the frequency and applicability of fundoscopy in the diagnosis and monitoring of diabetic retinopathy, a common microvascular complication in patients with diabetes mellitus. The research highlights the importance of early identification of retinal changes, aiming at the prevention of visual loss and adequate management of the disease. The main objective was to determine the recommended frequency for performing fundus examinations at various stages of diabetes and to evaluate the effectiveness of this procedure in clinical practice. A descriptive methodological approach was used, with a literature review and analysis of national and international clinical guidelines, in addition to observational data from a cohort of diabetic patients. The results showed that annual fundus examination is recommended for patients with type 1 diabetes from five years after diagnosis and for all patients with type 2 diabetes at the time of diagnosis. Patients with initial signs of retinopathy should undergo more frequent examinations, every six months, or as the disease progresses. It is concluded that fundoscopy is a fundamental examination in the screening and monitoring of diabetic retinopathy, and its frequency is crucial for the prevention of more serious complications, such as blindness. The study reinforces the need for clear protocols and facilitated access to the examination for at-risk populations.