The Effect of Hyperemesis Gravidarum on Macular Thickness, Corneal Thickness, and Intraocular Pressure in Pregnancy.

Aim: Physiological changes in intraocular pressure as well as in the cornea and macula may occur during pregnancy. Therefore, we decided to investigate the effect of hyperemesis gravidarum on macular thickness, corneal thickness and intraocular pressure (IOP).

Material and methods: A total of 110 people, 55 of whom were diagnosed with hyperemesis gravidarum and 55 of whom were in the control group, were included in the study. The inclusion criteria for the study were as follows: first trimester (8-14 weeks of gestation) pregnancy with positive fetal heartbeat and no history of systemic disease, no continuous use of medication, diagnosis of hyperemesis gravidarum (ketonuria and weight loss of more than 3 kilograms or 5% of body weight), body mass index (BMI) within normal limits, age between 18 and 40, no alcohol use or smoking.

Results: In the HG group compared to the control group, there was a difference between the CCT values of both the right and left eyes (p<0.01). There was a difference in both right and left IOP values in patients in the HG group compared to the control group (p<0.05), and there was no correlation between ketonuria scores and right and left eye CCT values, right and left eye macular thickness, and right and left eye pressure in patients diagnosed with HG (p>0.05).

Conclusion: In hyperemesis gravidarum, changes occur in IOP, corneal thickness, and macular thickness. In ophthalmic examinations in the pregestational period, especially for women with systemic disease, it may be important for clinicians to take the necessary precautions in this regard.