Diabetic Retinopathy

A complication of diabetes mellitus in which there is damage to blood vessels in the retina and retinal swelling.  New blood vessels grow, but leak into the retina (light sensitive layer of the eye) or vitreous humor (gel like material that fills the eye’s rear chamber) and fluid accumulates under the macula (retinal area responsible for seeing fine detail).  The changes cause detachment and scarring of the retina.  Vision is first blurred and spotty, and is eventually lost.  Laser surgery can remove damaged vessels, and if done early enough, may prevent further damage to the eyes.