Abstract: ObjectiveTo study the clinical features and pathogenesis of ophthalmoplegia in senile patients with diabetes, and access the possibility of its development.MethodsBesides routine ophthalmologic and ocular muscle examination, general and laboratory examinations were also done. Some patients were diagnosed also with the help of image processing.ResultsMonocular involvement happened in all 21 patients. 12 patients suffered from oculomotor nerve paralysis, 5 abducent nerve paralysis, 3 trochlearis nerve paralysis, and 1 compound nerve paralysis. Among these patients with complete oculomotor nerve panalysis, no papillary change appeared.Conclusions Microvascular pathologic change may be the pathogenetic basis of ophthalmoplegia for senile diabetic patients. Its prognosis is favorable if reasonable treatment is made.

Key words: diabetes, ophthalmoplegia, clinic, pathogenesis