A case of Non-Insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) with a history of diabetes for one year should have an ophthalmic examination?
**Core Concept**
Non-Insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM), also known as Type 2 diabetes, often leads to diabetic retinopathy, a microvascular complication that can cause vision loss. Early detection and treatment of diabetic retinopathy are crucial to prevent blindness. The American Diabetes Association recommends regular ophthalmic examinations for patients with diabetes to screen for diabetic retinopathy.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The American Diabetes Association recommends an initial ophthalmic examination 3-5 years after the diagnosis of diabetes. However, patients with a history of diabetes for one year should also be screened, especially if they have risk factors such as hypertension or high cholesterol. Diabetic retinopathy is a leading cause of blindness in working-age adults, and early detection and treatment can prevent vision loss.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because it does not specify when the patient should be screened. The American Diabetes Association recommends a specific timeline for initial screening.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because it does not account for risk factors such as hypertension or high cholesterol. Patients with these risk factors should be screened earlier.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because it does not specify the type of examination that should be performed. A comprehensive ophthalmic examination should be performed to screen for diabetic retinopathy.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
The American Diabetes Association recommends a comprehensive ophthalmic examination for patients with diabetes to screen for diabetic retinopathy. Patients with risk factors such as hypertension or high cholesterol should be screened earlier.
**Correct Answer: C. A comprehensive ophthalmic examination should be performed at least once every two years, starting 3-5 years after the diagnosis of diabetes.