Which of the following is a microvascular complication of diabetes mellitus?

Which of the following is a microvascular complication of diabetes mellitus?

• A. CAD
• B. Stroke
• C. Retinopathy
• D. Peripheral artery disease

Answer: (C)

Diabetes often damages small blood vessels, so microvascular complications affect the tiny vessels in organs like the eyes, kidneys, and nerves. Retinopathy is a direct example of that small-vessel damage in the retina and can progress to vision loss if not detected and managed. This contrasts with the other options, which involve larger arteries: CAD from the coronary arteries, stroke from cerebral arteries, and PAD from leg arteries. So retinopathy best fits the microvascular category. Regular eye exams and good blood sugar control help prevent or slow its progression.

Diabetes often damages small blood vessels, so microvascular complications affect the tiny vessels in organs like the eyes, kidneys, and nerves. Retinopathy is a direct example of that small-vessel damage in the retina and can progress to vision loss if not detected and managed. This contrasts with the other options, which involve larger arteries: CAD from the coronary arteries, stroke from cerebral arteries, and PAD from leg arteries. So retinopathy best fits the microvascular category. Regular eye exams and good blood sugar control help prevent or slow its progression.