Abstract:

Objective To investigate the relationship between diabetic retinopathy and serum bilirubin level. Methods Six hundreds and sixty-four hospitalized patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus from June 2005 to May 2008 were enrolled in this study. All subjects in this study were divided into two groups based on the results of fundus examination: non-diabetic retinopathy(NDR) group and diabetic retinopathy(DR) group. Serum bilirubin levels of two groups were determined and compared. Multivariate Logistic regression analysis was performed to estimate the odd ratios of all risk factors. Results The serum bilirubin level of DR group is lower NDR group(P<0.01). Logistic regression analysis showed that the duration(OR=1.011), LDLC level(OR=1.450) and systolic blood pressure(OR=1.011) were independent risk factors of incidence of diabetic retinopathy, and serum bilirubin was a protective factor(OR=0.909). Conclusion Bilirubin level and diabetic retinopathy have some relationship. Attention should be paid to the antioxidant role of bilirubin.

Key words: diabetic retinopathy, oxidative stress, serum bilirubin, fundus photography