HOURS
Mon-Fri: 8:00am – 5:00pm
(Or by Appointment)
Sat-Sun: Closed
Diabetic Macular Edema
Background
Diabetic macular edema (DME) is a significant retinal complication stemming from diabetes, primarily arising from diabetic retinopathy, which affects a portion of individuals with diabetes. As blood sugar levels remain elevated over time, they lead to damage of the retinal blood vessels, causing leakage of fluid into the macula—the area responsible for central vision. Diabetic macular edema is a leading cause of vision impairment among working-age adults.
With the increasing prevalence of diabetes globally, understanding and addressing DME has become crucial for preserving vision and enhancing the quality of life for affected individuals. Advances in treatment have significantly altered the management landscape for this potentially sight-threatening condition.
Signs & Symptoms
Some symptoms of DME include:
If you are experiencing any of these signs, follow up with an eye doctor:
- Blurred or distorted central vision
- Difficulty seeing details
- Colors may appear faded or less vibrant
- Visions may fluctuate, improving and worsening intermittently
Contributing Factors
There are also numerous factors that may increase your risk of DME, including:
- High blood sugar levels
- Long duration of diabetes
- High blood pressure/cholesterol levels
- Pregnancy
- Cigarette smoking
- Obesity
- Genetic predisposition
Diagnosis
DME is diagnosed through a comprehensive eye examination, which includes visual acuity tests and dilated fundus examination. Imaging techniques, such as optical coherence tomography (OCT), help visualize the thickness of the retina and the extent of edema.
Treatment
- Injections: Anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) medications, such as ranibizumab or aflibercept, are often injected into the eye to reduce fluid leakage and swelling
- Corticosteroids: Injections or implants can also be used to decrease inflammation and edema
- Laser therapy: Focal or grid laser treatment can help seal leaking blood vessels and reduce fluid accumulation
- Surgery: In severe cases, vitrectomy may be required to remove blood and scar tissue from the eye
- Tight glycemic control is essential to manage DME
Connecticut Eye Consultants has participated in multiple studies involving DME and have an experienced retinal research team to guide participants through the decision-making process.
Doctors at Connecticut Eye Consultants who can diagnose and treat diabetic macular edema:
- Armand Daccache
- Richard Scartozzi
For more information, please visit Diabetic Macular Edema: Diagnosis and Management – American Academy of Ophthalmology (aao.org)
