Diabetic Maculopathy (Diabetic Macular Oedema)

What are the effects of this oedema?

First of all, in terms of vision, there is progressive blurring, mainly of the central visual field. The larger the oedema, the greater the disturbance to vision. In addition, a condition called metamorphopsia often develops. In metamorphopsia, objects look distorted. This is particularly noticeable with objects that have straight lines, such as doors and windows, which look wavy. The symptoms usually progress slowly, but there are cases of rapid deterioration.

In recent years, diagnosis has become much simpler with the use of a machine called optical coherence tomography (OCT). With optical coherence tomography (OCT) we obtain, in a very short time and without radiation or pain, cross-sectional images of the macula which, together with fundoscopy, give us all the information we need to make a reliable diagnosis and move on to effective treatment.

Finally, it is worth stressing how much the results of treatment have improved, provided, of course, that the treating doctor has the necessary specialist expertise and the patient cooperates well. With a choice between treatment with intravitreal injections and two different types of laser, we are in a position to achieve very good results. Intravitreal injections (injections into the eye) are not painful, and you do not see anything during the injection. All you feel is slight pressure at the edge of the eye, which is why the great majority of patients keep up with their treatment and have good results. In some other cases we choose laser treatment, which has been tried and tested for many years and offers important solutions.

In conclusion, correct and prompt treatment is of the utmost importance in managing this increasingly frequently diagnosed condition.