Retinopathy and microalbuminuria are common microvascular complications in cystic fibrosis-related diabetes

Abstract

Aims: To study the prevalence of microvascular complications and renal changes associated with cystic fibrosis-related diabetes (CFRD). Methods: This retrospective cohort study was conducted at the West Midlands Adult Cystic Fibrosis centre, United Kingdom. Data regarding age, sex, microalbuminuria, retinopathy neuropathy, and biochemical results were collected for all people with CFRD who had an annual review from 1 January 2018 to 31 December 2018 at the centre. Descriptive statistics were analysed using STATAv15.1. Results: A total of 189 patients were included, of which 56.6% were male and median age (interquartile range) was 33 (27–39) years; 79.4% (150/189) had their annual review in 2018. Those with a biochemically impaired renal function numbered 7.2% (13/180) and 22.7% (32/141) had microalbuminuria; 17.2% (10/58) had diabetes related retinopathy. No one in our cohort had diabetic ulcers; however, 10.3% (13/126) had absent foot pulses. Conclusion: We found a higher prevalence of microalbuminuria compared with retinopathy in a large cohort of cystic fibrosis adults. This study demonstrates the need for regular specialist follow-up to facilitate early identification of such complications and a long-term prospective cohort to understand underlying mechanisms.

Cystic Fibrosis-Related Diabetes in Poland

“…Summarizing, according to recommendations, patients with CFRD should be screened annually beginning five years after the diagnosis of CFRD for diabetic complications, as prolonged life expectancy and improvement in clinical condition may increase the incidence of microvascular complications [ 17 ]. Research indicates that approximately 30% of CFRD patients have microvascular complications including microalbuminuria, retinopathy, neuropathy, and nephropathy [ 43 , 44 ]. Moreover, in recent years, more and more attention has been paid to the impact of the wide spectrum of glucose metabolism derangements in patients affected by CF.…”

An Update in Cystic Fibrosis-Related Diabetes in Children and Adolescents

“…Microalbuminuria is associated with an increased risk of chronic kidney disease. It is essential to interpret microalbuminuria cautiously since it can be falsely elevated in cases involving antibiotics, severe illness, or physical stress, according to Kempegowda et al in 2020 [65].…”