DISEASE SCANNER

Global Incurable Diseases Tracker

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Ophthalmologic Disease

Diabetic Macular Edema (DME)

HIGH SEVERITY

A complication of diabetic retinopathy where fluid builds up in the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp central vision. Leading cause of vision loss in people with diabetes.

Global Affected

21.0M

Countries

19

Symptoms

Blurred central vision
Colors appear washed out
Double vision
Floaters
Difficulty reading
Distorted vision
Vision loss (severe cases)

Treatment Options

Anti-VEGF injections
Focal laser photocoagulation
Grid laser photocoagulation
Steroid implants
Anti-VEGF + steroid combination
Vitrectomy (rare)
Blood sugar control

Risk Factors

1Diabetes (type 1 or 2)
2Poor glycemic control
3Longer diabetes duration
4High blood pressure
5High cholesterol
6Pregnancy
7Kidney disease
8Smoking

Diagnostic Methods

  • 1Dilated eye exam
  • 2Optical coherence tomography (OCT)
  • 3Fluorescein angiography
  • 4Visual acuity testing
  • 5Fundus photography
  • 6Amsler grid testing

Prognosis

Variable. Anti-VEGF treatments effective for many. Requires ongoing treatment. Vision can be preserved/stabilized with early detection. Poor diabetes control worsens prognosis. Regular follow-up lifelong.

Prevention

  • Tight blood sugar control
  • Blood pressure management
  • Cholesterol management
  • Regular eye exams
  • Don't smoke
  • Early treatment of retinopathy

Research Status

Anti-VEGF injections (aflibercept, ranibizumab, bevacizumab) are first-line. Focal/grid laser for non-center involved. Steroid implants (dexamethasone, fluocinolone) for persistent cases. Combination therapy common. Regular monitoring essential.

Affected Countries

United StatesUnited KingdomCanadaAustraliaGermanyFranceItalySpainJapanBrazilMexicoIndiaChinaRussiaSwedenNetherlandsNorwayFinlandDenmark

Sources

  • https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetic-retinopathy
  • https://www.hematology.org/education/patients
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books
  • https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.