Association Between Triglyceride-Glucose Index and Central Retinal Artery Occlusion
A new study from Turkey highlights a significant correlation between the triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index and central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO). Researchers found that an elevated TyG index could serve as a predictive marker for CRAO risk, emphasizing the potential role of metabolic markers in vascular eye diseases.
Study Overview
A research team led by Hatice Aslan Sirakaya, MD, from Health Science University, The Kayseri City Hospital, Kayseri, Turkey, explored the relationship between the TyG index and CRAO in newly diagnosed patients. Collaborators from the Department of Ophthalmology, Health Science University, and the Department of Ophthalmology, Maya Eye Hospital, Kayseri, contributed to the study.
Methodology
The study examined:
• Participants: 51 CRAO patients and 50 age- and sex-matched healthy controls.
• Assessments: Comprehensive ocular examinations and blood parameter measurements.
• TyG Index Calculation: Derived from fasting plasma glucose and triglyceride values.
Key Findings
The researchers identified significant differences in TyG values between the CRAO and control groups:
• CRAO Group: 8.74 ± 0.17
• Control Group: 8.49 ± 0.22
• Statistical Significance: P < 0.001
Additionally, multivariate analysis confirmed that the TyG index independently predicted CRAO risk:
• Odds Ratio: 1.84 (95% confidence interval: 1.19 – 4.23, P < 0.001)
• Receiver Operating Curve (ROC) Area: 0.789
• Prediction Accuracy: A TyG index value over 8.58 predicted CRAO with 78% sensitivity and 68% specificity.
Conclusion
The study underscores a "notable" association between an elevated TyG index and CRAO. Researchers suggest that the TyG index could be a valuable predictive marker in assessing CRAO risk, paving the way for improved early detection and prevention strategies in ophthalmology.
Reference:
Sirakaya HA, Ayyildiz B, Sert II, Kucuk B, Koca S, Sirakaya E. The role of triglyceride-glucose index in central retinal artery occlusion. Int Ophthalmol. 2025;45:82; https://doi.org/10.1007/s10792-024-03344-x
