Novel eye monitor can spot early signs of diabetic neuropathy
Cases of diabetes-related neuropathy could soon be detected at an early stage, when it can be treated more easily and effectively, using new state-of-the-art optical technology.
Researchers from the National Taiwan University Hospital and National Chiao-Tung University say they have developed a wearable device that can test for autonomic neuropathy (nerve damage) in patients with diabetes.
Diabetic autonomic neuropathy is a common complication of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. It progressively affects the nerves that control vital organs including the heart and gastrointestinal system, and can lead to serious health problems if left untreated.
Current screening methods often fail to pick up the condition in its early stages – before the onset of moderate nerve damage and organ dysfunction – as they rely on observing changes in digestive speed, blood pressure and heart rate over time.
But the development of a small, lightweight, wearable device called a pupillometer could improve early detection of the disease, leading to better treatment and health outcomes.
“Compared to the existing diagnostic techniques, the pupillometer is a more reliable, effective, portable and inexpensive solution,” said lead researcher Mang Ou-Yang of National Chiao-Tung University.
In a paper published today in The Optical Society (OSA)’s journal Applied Optics, …read more
Source: News from Diabetes.co.uk