The effect of voluntary fasting and dehydration on flicker-induced retinal vascular dilation in a healthy individual: a case report

• Main Authors: Heitmar Rebekka, Gherghel Doina, Armstrong Richard, Cubbidge Robert, Hosking Sarah
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: BMC 2008-05-01
• Series: Journal of Medical Case Reports
• Online Access: http://www.jmedicalcasereports.com/content/2/1/153

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Introduction</p> <p>Dynamic retinal vessel analysis represents a well-established method for the assessment of vascular reactivity during both normal conditions and after various provocations. We present a case where the subject showed abnormal retinal vessel reactivity after fasting voluntarily for 20 hours.</p> <p>Case presentation</p> <p>A healthy, 21-year-old man who fasted voluntarily for 20 hours exhibited abnormal retinal vascular reactivity (dilation and constriction) after flicker provocation as measured using the Dynamic Retinal Vessel Analyser (Imedos, Jena, Germany).</p> <p>Conclusion</p> <p>The abnormal vascular reactivity induced by fasting was significant; abnormal levels of important nutrients due to fasting and dehydration could play a role through altering the concentration of vasoactive substances such as nitric oxide. This hypothesis needs further investigation.</p>