Diabetic Retinopathy: A Systematic Review, From Disease Overview to Treatment

Abstract

Diabetes can lead to various complications, with diabetic retinopathy (DR) being one of the main causes of vision loss in adults between 25 and 74 years old. DR results from chronic hyperglycemia, which damages the retina and can cause hemorrhages, retinal detachment, vascular glaucoma, and macular edema. The progression of DR is influenced by genetic factors and conditions such as hypertension and dyslipidemia. There are two forms of DR: proliferative (with the growth of new abnormal blood vessels) and non-proliferative (with microaneurysms and small hemorrhages). Early detection and proper management are crucial to preventing vision loss, using exams such as fundus photography and optical coherence tomography (OCT). Treatment includes systemic control of glucose, lipid, and blood pressure levels, as well as therapies like injections of anti-angiogenic drugs and laser photocoagulation. Prevention involves strict control of blood glucose, blood pressure, and lipid profile, along with educating patients on the importance of adequate metabolic control.