Ophthalmic Arterial Doppler Ultrasound Findings in Patients with Primary Arterial Hypertension

Abstract

Objective: To determine ophthalmic arterial Doppler ultrasound findings in patients with primary arterial hypertension.

Methods: A descriptive and cross-sectional observational study was carried out with 202 orbits of 101 hypertensive patients, who underwent fundus examination for diagnosis and grading of hypertensive retinopathy. By interrogation and physical examination, excessive alcohol consumption and obesity were identified as atherosclerotic risk factors. In addition, orbital ultrasound and carotid Doppler were performed, and only if they were normal, the ophthalmic arteries were evaluated using Doppler ultrasound.

Results: Hypertensive patients between 40 and 60 years of age, male, mixed skin color, cases without hypertensive retinopathy, and the group between 10 and 20 years after hypertension diagnosis predominated. An increase in flow velocity and vascular resistance at the level of the ophthalmic arteries was demonstrated. Meanwhile, a significant association of these hemodynamic parameters with aging and time of diagnosis of hypertension was evidenced. However, no significant association was found with gender, skin color, and the presence or absence of obesity, excessive alcohol consumption, and hypertensive retinopathy regardless of its severity.

Conclusions: Evaluation of the ophthalmic arteries using Doppler ultrasound allows a more comprehensive study and follow-up of patients with primary arterial hypertension.