title: Primary treatment of diabetic macular edema.
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.
authors.affiliation: Scheie Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
authors.forename: Tushar M
authors.initials: TM
authors.lastname: Ranchod
authors.forename: Stuart L
authors.initials: SL
authors.lastname: Fine
mesh_terms: D048909:Diabetes Complications; D006801:Humans; D008269:Macular Edema / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000209:etiology / Q000601:surgery; D013256:Steroids / Q000627:therapeutic use
chemical_list: D013256:Steroids