Is diabetic retinopathy curable?

No: Diabetic retinopathy is an overgrowth of small blood vessels in the retina. These vessels interfere with the normal light perception of the eye. An ophthalmologist uses a laser to cauterize the overgrowth but this does not prevent new blood vessels from growing. The laser treatment can be repeated to treat new overgrowth but it will not result in a normal retina regardless of how many treatments.

Diabetic retinopathy: In susceptible diabetics, prolonged poor control leads to weakening of the outer walls of vessels in the retina leading to outpouching (microaneurysms), leaks, scarring, and vascular occlusion leading to ischemia. Ischemia sends out a signal (vegf) causing the growth of new vessels (neovascularization) which leak, and can lead to retinal detachment and proliferation. It is treatable - hurry.

Managable: Dr is not curable, but manageable. Tight control of glucose can help prevent or delay the onset of retinopathy. Control of blood pressure and cholesterol are also important factors. It is important for all diabetics to get annual dilated eye exams from an ophthalmologist to determine whether retinopathy is present.

Treatable!!: Tremendous advances in therapies for this issue, all dictated by extent of changes. Critical you are under care of retinal specialist to counsel you on best treatment protocols.