Diabetic Macular Edema: An Eye Threat for People with Diabetes

Diabetic Macular Edema (DME) is a severe complication of diabetic retinopathy that causes macular swelling and significantly impairs central vision.

Pathogenesis

Chronic high blood sugar damages the microvasculature of the retina, leading to:

• Increased vascular permeability leads to fluid leakage into the macula.
• Macular edema and thickening
• Damage to photoreceptor cells leads to reduced central vision.

High-risk groups

• Duration of diabetes exceeds 10 years
• Poorly controlled blood glucose (HbA1c > 7%)
• Combine Hypertension and Hyperlipidemia
• Gestational Diabetes
• Kidney patients

Symptoms

• Gradual decline in central vision
• Distorted vision (straight lines appear curved)
• Viewing colors appear darker
• Blurred area appears in the center of the field of view

Diagnostic Methods

• ** Fundus Exam **: Assess macular edema
• **OCT Check**: Precise Macular Thickness Measurement
• **Fluorescein Angiography of the Fundus **: Evaluate vascular leakage

Treatment Options

### 1. Anti-VEGF Injection

• Intravitreal anti-VEGF injection
• Reduce vascular leakage and alleviate edema
• Multiple treatments are typically required.

### 2. Laser Therapy

• Focal Laser: Seal Leaking Points
• Grid Laser: Reduce Macular Edema

### 3. Corticosteroid Therapy

• Intravitreal injection or implantation of sustained-release drugs
• Reduce inflammation and swelling

Prevention Recommendations

• Strictly control blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol.
• Schedule regular eye exams (at least once a year for people with diabetes).
• Seek immediate medical attention if you experience changes in vision.