Association between hyperglycemia during pregnancy and offspring's refractive error: A focused review

Eur J Ophthalmol. 2024 Mar 24:11206721241238389. doi: 10.1177/11206721241238389. Online ahead of print.

Abstract

This review article explores the relationship between hyperglycemia during pregnancy and the visual development of offspring, specifically focusing on refractive error. The authors conducted a comprehensive search for relevant articles in various databases and assessed the methodological quality of the included studies. The findings consistently indicate that hyperglycemia during pregnancy can have a detrimental impact on the structural and functional aspects of visual development in offspring. The intrauterine hyperglycemic environment appears to negatively affect the retina and lens, leading to refractive errors. In conclusion, there is likely an association between hyperglycemia during pregnancy and the development of refractive errors in offspring.

Keywords: Hyperglycemia; gestational diabetes; offspring; pregnancy; refractive error.

Publication types

  • Review