Diabetic Retinopathy is a diabetes related condition that causes the blood vessels in the retina to become damaged and may result in blindness if not treated. It evolves step wise, where background diabetic retinopathy is considered an early phase while proliferative diabetic retinopathy is an advanced phase. It is important to know these differences in order to treat the problem and prevent the worsening of the situation. In this blog we will discuss these differences and also give information on how to deal with this condition.
What is Background Diabetic Retinopathy?
Background diabetic retinopathy, or non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR), is the earliest form of the disease. It develops when high blood sugar levels harm the small blood vessels in the retina.
Key Characteristics of Background Diabetic Retinopathy:
- Microaneurysms: Microaneurysms are the first signs of damage to the blood vessels of the retina, which are small bulging.
- Retinal Hemorrhages: Petechiae are pinpoint hemorrhages and may be seen as a dot or blot hemorrhage.
- Hard Exudates: Lipid deposition may occur in the retina and cause formation of yellowish lesions.
- Macular Edema: Macular swelling due to leakage of fluid can negatively affect the central vision.
At this stage, vision may not be compromised but if left untreated, the condition may worsen to other severities.
What is Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy?
PDR is the second stage of the disease where the retinal blood vessels become progressively damaged. In response, the body tries to create new, but abnormal blood vessels in the retina.
Key Characteristics of Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy:
- Neovascularization: Abnormal vessels arise from the retina and extend into the vitreous humor. These vessels are relatively fragile and are likely to leak and rupture.
- Vitreous Hemorrhage: It may produce floaters or even severe vision loss if the bleeding occurs in the vitreous gel.
- Retinal Detachment: New vessels themselves can develop scar tissue that may tug at the retina and move it out of its proper location.
- Advanced Vision Loss: If left untreated, the condition of this stage results in severe and irreversible blindness.
PDR is a medical emergency and it has to be treated to avoid permanent blindness.
How Background Diabetic Retinopathy Progresses to Proliferative Stage
If not well managed, background diabetic retinopathy may eventually turn into the proliferative type. Factors contributing to this progression include:
- Poor blood sugar control.
- Long-standing diabetes.
- High blood pressure, cholesterol or diabetes.
- Lack of exercise, eating unhealthy foods, and smoking.
Diabetic retinopathy is diagnosed by a complete eye check up that can identify both the early and advanced stages of the condition at The Eye Foundation. An assessment of the damage to the retina is done by dilated fundus examination, OCT and fluorescein angiography.
Diagnosis and Treatment for Both Stages
Diagnosis:
During eye check up at The Eye Foundation, both stages of diabetic retinopathy are diagnosed through comprehensive eye examination. Dilated fundus examination, optical coherence retinal tomography and/or fluorescein angiography are used to determine the severity of retinal involvement.
Treatment for Background Diabetic Retinopathy:
- Blood Sugar Control: It can be arrested if the patient continues to manage his/her blood sugar levels to the best of his/her abilities.
- Medications: They may be advised to undergo Anti-VEGF injections to help minimize the inflammation.
- Lifestyle Modifications: These include taking a balanced diet, exercising, and stopping the smoking habit.
Treatment for Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy:
- Laser Photocoagulation: Laser therapy effectively closes leaking vessels and inhibits new vessel formation.
- Vitrectomy Surgery: This surgery involves cutting of the blood-filled vitreous gel and scar tissue.
- Injections: Abnormal blood vessel growth is usually managed by Anti VEGF therapy.
Why Choose The Eye Foundation for Diabetic Retinopathy Care?
Our doctors at The Eye Foundation offer comprehensive management for diabetic retinopathy based on the stage involved; thus, we treat proliferative diabetic retinopathy as well. Our diagnostic equipment is up to date and we also develop unique treatment plans to enhance patient’s recovery.
Book a Consultation
Is diabetic retinopathy a worry for you? Please do not hesitate to contact us to book an appointment. The professionals at The Eye Foundation are here to safeguard your sight and direct you toward proper care.
