Back to Journals » Clinical Interventions in Aging » Volume 4

Primary treatment of diabetic macular edema

Authors Ranchod T, Fine S

Published 25 February 2009 Volume 2009:4 Pages 101—107

DOI https://doi.org/10.2147/CIA.S4357

Review by Single anonymous peer review

Peer reviewer comments 2



Tushar M Ranchod, Stuart L Fine

Scheie Eye Institute, Department, of Ophthalmology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA

Abstract: Diabetic macular edema (DME) is a leading cause of vision loss in older Americans. Thermal laser treatment remains the mainstay of treatment for DME. Recently, alternative primary treatments for DME have been evaluated. These treatments include intravitreal injections of steroids as well as pharmaceuticals containing antibodies against vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Surgical treatment has been shown to be appropriate in selected cases. We review the evidence and scientific rationale for various primary treatment options in patients with DME. Regular and timely ophthalmologic evaluation remains crucial to recognition and treatment of macular edema in diabetic patients.

Keywords: diabetic macular edema, vision loss, diabetes mellitus

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