DISEASE SCANNER
Global Incurable Diseases Tracker
Diabetic Retinopathy
A diabetes complication affecting the eyes, caused by damage to blood vessels in the retina. Leading cause of blindness in working-age adults. Can progress from mild non-proliferative to proliferative retinopathy with neovascularization.
146.0M
111
Symptoms
Treatment Options
Risk Factors
Diagnostic Methods
- 1Dilated fundus examination
- 2Fluorescein angiography
- 3OCT (macular edema)
- 4OCT angiography
- 5Fundus photography
- 6AI screening systems
Prognosis
Early detection critical; 95% vision loss preventable with timely treatment. 40-45% of diabetics have some retinopathy. Proliferative retinopathy: high risk of blindness without treatment.
Prevention
- Tight glycemic control
- Blood pressure control
- Lipid management
- Regular eye exams (annually)
- Smoking cessation
- Pregnancy planning
Research Status
Anti-VEGF injections (aflibercept, ranibizumab) revolutionized treatment. Faricimab (bispecific antibody) approved. AI screening algorithms (IDx-DR) FDA-approved. Sustained-release implants reducing injection burden. Fenofibrate showing promise for prevention.
Affected Countries
Sources
- https://medlineplus.gov
- https://www.mayoclinic.org
- 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.