Hyperhomocysteinemia, Hyperlipidemia and Retina

Abstract

Hyperhomocysteinemia is a disease with an increase in the plasma level of homocysteine, an intermediate of methionine metabolism, and predisposes to thrombosis. It is a well-established risk factor for occlusive cardiovascular illnesses and has been linked to ocular pathologies such as retinal vascular disorders, age-related macular degeneration, and most notably ectopia lentis. Lipids compose approximately 20% of the dry weight of the retina. Apart from their structural significance, lipids also serve a critical function in providing the necessary energy for the metabolic needs of the retina. Hyperlipidemia is described as an abnormally high level of blood cholesterol and triglycerides and is a major risk factor for atherosclerosis. It may increase the risk of retinal vascular disorders secondary to atherosclerosis-like processes in the retina. Through the inflammatory process they generate, hyperhomocysteinemia and hyperlipidemia may also contribute to the progression of retinal vascular disorders such as diabetic and hypertensive retinopathy and retinopathy of prematurity.