Ocular Complications of Diabetes Mellitus – Diabetic Retinopathy

Abstract:

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is ocular complication of diabetes mellitus. It is divided into two basic groups: nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR) and proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR). The development of DR is complex and influenced by a number of factors, and the ultimate result is a drop in visual acuity of varying intensity, including blindness. The underlying cause for the development of DR is a change in the retinal blood vessels (abnormal permeability of the blood vessel walls, which causes oedema and vascular occlusion leading to ischemia). The risk for the development of diabetic retinopathy increases with the duration of the underlying disease and poor glycemic control. In the very late stages, most patients present no symptoms that would encourage them to visit an ophthalmologist, which makes monitoring of diabetic patients crucial. At the time of diagnosis of diabetic retinopathy, the ophthalmologist will recommend the frequency of follow-ups, further diagnostic tests and treatment, in accordance with the guidelines of professional societies. 

Key words:
Diabetic Retinopathy; Macular Edema; Laser Therapy; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors