Types of Diabetic Retinopathy

Background retinopathy, an early stage of the condition (Fig. 1) involves changes in the blood vessels within the retina. Some shrink, others grow, to form balloon-like sacs which may leak or hemorrhage.  In the majority of cases, sight is not seriously affected.  However, this is a warning sign that a sight-endangering condition could occur in the future, so more frequent eye exams are required to monitor for further deterioration.

Diabetic macular edema (Fig. 2 & 3) is a more serious form of diabetic retinopathy.  Fluid accumulates in the macula, the center portion of the retina which may cause distortion and even loss of central vision.

Proliferative diabetic retinopathy (fig. 4) is the most severe stage and the most threatening to sight.  It is caused by a lack of oxygen to the eye, which stimulates abnormal blood vessel growth.  These vessels are fragile and may rupture.  Scar tissue from the ruptured blood vessels may tighten and pull on the retina, detaching it from the inner wall.  There is no symptom of pain, and severe loss of sight, even blindness, may result.

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