Fight Against Angiogenesis-Related Blindness: Focusing on Diabetic Retinopathy

Author(s): Dong Hyun Jo, Jin Hyoung Kim and Jeong Hun Kim

Pp: 322-349 (28)

* (Excluding Mailing and Handling)

Abstract

This chapter aims to evaluate treatment options for diabetic retinopathy (DR). Prior to discussing therapeutic approaches, we summarize the pathogenesis of DR as one of microvascular complications of diabetes and diseases in the retina. Current treatment options of DR include control of blood glucose and pressure, retinal photocoagulation, surgery, and intravitreal injection of steroid and anti-vascular endothelial growth factor agents. Although these have reduced the risk of blindness in patients with DR, each has its limitations. We list candidate drugs which aim at overcoming these limitations in clinical trials. Further studies are required to develop new drugs based on consideration of the pathophysiology of DR and the structure of the retina.

Keywords: Diabetes, diabetic retinopathy, hyperglycemia, hypoxia, inflammation, oxidative stress, macular edema, pathologic angiogenesis, retina, vascular endothelial growth factor, vascular permeability.