There are two conditions where laser treatment is needed in patients with diabetic retinopathy: macular edema and evidence of proliferative retinopathy. In cases where macular edema, swelling of the retina in the macular area, is present, "focal" photocoagulation is needed. In cases of proliferative diabetic retinopathy, "pan-retinal photocoagulation," or PRP, is needed. Focal Laser … [Read more...]
Diabetic Retinopathy: Have You Lost Vision from Diabetic Retinopathy?
October 15, 2009 By 2 Comments
There are 4 stages of diabetic retinopathy. Each stage is based upon the appearance of the retinas at the time of examination and are not based upon a patient's symptoms, including vision. Many people with early diabetic retinopathy have no symptoms. Therefore, regardless of whether you are experiencing symptoms, it is imperative that if you have diabetes you schedule regular eye exams. If … [Read more...]
High A1C Levels and Lipoprotein Lead to Retinopathy Progression
July 31, 2009 By Leave a Comment
According to a small study in Japan, patients with elevated serum glucose/high HgbA1C levels along with increased lipoprotein a had a significantly higher degree of progression of non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy. Also associated were increased systolic blood pressure and fibrinogen levels. The study involved 106 patients who were followed for 2 years. Definitions; lipoprotein a - … [Read more...]
