Growth Hormone and Endothelial Function during Exercise in Diabetics with and without Retinopathy

Abstract
Changes in plasma growth hormone (GH), factor VIII related antigen (VIIIR:Ag) and plasminogen activator activity (PAA) during exercise were evaluated in 50 insulin-dependent diabetics. In patients with a short to moderately long duration of diabetes (5-19 yr, mean 11). GH increased only in those with retinopathy. VIIIR:Ag and PAA increased most pronouncedly in retinopathy patients as well. In diabetics with long duration of the disease (21 to 49 yr, mean 35). GH, VIIIR:Ag and PAA increased almost equally in those with and without retinopathy.