The influence of diabetes mellitus on primary open angle glaucoma perimetry.

We have carried out a study into retinal sensitivity alterations in the course of primary open angle glaucoma to see if their appearance and evolution might be influenced by concomitant diabetes mellitus. The visual field examination (Perimeter Octopus 500 EZ, programme G1) indicated prevalent sensitivity defects in the superior hemifield, both in glaucoma only subjects and in those with diabetes as well. As to the inferior hemifield, a greater, statistically significant, retinal sensitivity defect was found in the inferior temporal quadrant of the left eye in the group of diabetics.