New Diagnostic and Therapeutic Approaches for Preventing the Progression of Diabetic Retinopathy

J Diabetes Res. 2016:2016:1753584. doi: 10.1155/2016/1753584. Epub 2015 Dec 31.

Abstract

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a severe sight-threatening complication of diabetes mellitus. Retinal laser photocoagulation, antivascular endothelial growth factors, steroid therapy, and pars plana vitrectomy are now used extensively to treat advanced stages of diabetic retinopathy. Currently, diagnostic devices like ultrawide field fundus fluorescein angiography and the improvement of optical coherence tomography have provided quicker and more precise diagnosis of early diabetic retinopathy. Thus, treatment protocols have been modified accordingly. Various types of lasers, including the subthreshold micropulse laser and RPE-targeting laser, and selective targeted photocoagulation may be future alternatives to conventional retinal photocoagulation, with fewer complications. The new developed intravitreal medications and implants have provided more therapeutic options, with promising results.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Diabetic Retinopathy / diagnosis*
  • Diabetic Retinopathy / therapy*
  • Disease Progression
  • Early Diagnosis
  • Fluorescein Angiography
  • Humans
  • Low-Level Light Therapy
  • Tomography, Optical Coherence
  • Triamcinolone Acetonide / therapeutic use
  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A / antagonists & inhibitors

Substances

  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A
  • Triamcinolone Acetonide