Association of serum lipid profile and other systemic risk factors with retinal hard exudates in diabetic retinopathy.

Purpose: Diabetic macular edema is one of the leading causes of vision loss across the world. Hard exudates at the macula can lead to structural abnormalities in the retina leading to irreversible vision loss. Systemic dyslipidemia and other modifiable risk factors when identified and treated early may help prevent substantial vision loss.