News in the therapy of diabetic retinopathy

Medical Review (Med. pregled), 2026, 62(2), 59-64.

H. Vidinova, P. Genchovski

Eye Clinic, Military Medical Academy – Sofia

Abstract: Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a socially significant disease. Patients suffering from it have a 25 times higher risk of blindness compared to non-diabetics. Diabetic changes in the eye can be presented in two clinical forms: nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR) and proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR). NPDR is more common, which is directly related to the underlying disease – diabetes and blood sugar control. PDR develops in eyes with retinal ischemia, due to prior microcirculatory damage and capillary occlusion. The article discusses the epidemiology, risk factors, and diagnosis of diabetic retinopathy. The different types of therapies, including anti-VEGF medications, are reviewed.

Key words: diabetic retinopathy, therapy, anti-VEGF therapy

Address for correspondence: Prof. Hristina Vidinova, MD, e-mail: christinavidinova@yahoo.com