[Diabetic maculopathy. Diagnosis and treatment]

Abstract

Due to demographic change the incidence of diabetic retinopathy has risen in spite of new facilities and prevention campaigns and is still one of the leading causes of blindness in Germany. The combination of focal/grid laser photocoagulation and an intravitreal anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) regimen is the first line approach for clinically significant macular edema with foveal involvement and is evidence-based. Vitreomacular interface abnormalities can be effectively treated by modern vitreomacular surgery. Unfortunately, no proven treatment modality can be provided for ischemic maculopathy. The management of systemic risks factors, such as hyperglycemia and arterial hypertension, remains a task of great importance despite all modifications and increase of knowledge during recent years. Innovative developments in the field of intravitreal pharmacotherapy have opened up new vistas. There are good prospects that modern ophthalmology will not be limited to preserving visual function but to allow improvements and consequently enhance health-related quality of life for diabetic patients.