DIABETIC-RETINOPATHY

Nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy may cause visual loss when assoc iated with macular edema or macular ischemia (secondary to retinal cap illary nonperfusion). Proliferative diabetic retinopathy may cause sev ere visual loss if complicated by vitreous hemorrhage or traction deta chment of the macula. Patients with diabetes benefit from collaboratio n between the internist and ophthalmologist. Tighter control of blood glucose levels and lower blood pressure reduce the risk of progression of diabetic retinopathy. Regular dilated eye examinations and appropr iate intervention with laser or vitrectomy surgery help to preserve vi sion in patients with established macular edema or proliferative diabe tic retinopathy.