Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that affects vision. Nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy describes the earlier stages of the condition before it progresses into the final and most advanced stage.
Diabetic retinopathy is the
Health experts classify diabetic retinopathy into two different types depending on the condition’s severity. Nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR) describes the earlier stages of the condition, while proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) refers to the final stage.
The main difference between the two conditions is the presence of atypical blood vessels in PDR, which have a greater potential for serious visual consequences.
In this article, we will define NPDR, discuss how it differs from PDR, and explore prevention strategies.
NPDR refers to the
As the condition advances through the different stages of NPDR, more damage occurs to the blood vessels. Eventually, a person will present with signs that a doctor will be able to identify during a routine eye exam.
PDR describes the final and more advanced stage of diabetic eye disease. The term proliferative refers to the production of new and fragile blood vessels that develop at this stage of the condition.
When the condition progresses to this stage, circulation problems with blood vessels deprive the retina of oxygen. This results in the development of new, fragile blood vessels that may begin to grow in the retina and into the vitreous. The vitreous is the gel-like fluid that fills the back of the eye.
However, these new blood vessels are prone to leaking and may also lead to scar tissue developing. Both of these can result in complications and severely affect vision.
In the earlier stages of NPDR, people
It is often difficult to stage the condition according to symptoms. Instead, an eye doctor will inspect the eye and look for signs to indicate the condition’s progression. The characteristic features of different stages of NPDR include the below.
| Diabetic retinopathy | Signs |
|---|---|
| Mild NPDR | microaneurysms only |
| Moderate NPDR | microaneurysms and other signs, such as dot and blot hemorrhages, hard exudates (deposits), or cotton wool spots |
| Severe NPDR | an eye doctor may use the 4-2-1 rule to diagnose this stage, which represents: • hemorrhages being present in all four retinal quadrants • venous beading appearing in two or more quadrants • intraretinal microvascular abnormalities are present in at least one quadrant |
In the early stages of NPDR, a doctor
They may also emphasize the importance of maintaining blood sugar levels, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels to
As the condition progresses and symptoms worsen, a doctor may recommend laser therapy or vitrectomy. The latter is a technique that removes and replaces the vitreous humor of the eye.
Currently, there is no cure for diabetic retinopathy, but the condition is manageable. The main strategy to avoid NPDR progressing to PDR is to manage blood sugar levels and keep them within a suitable range. Additionally, it is also important to manage blood pressure and a person’s cholesterol levels and maintain a moderate weight.
Furthermore, if someone requires treatment for diabetic retinopathy, it is vital to receive it as soon as possible. As such, it is essential that a person living with diabetes attends regular annual eye exams.
Health experts classify diabetic retinopathy into two types: nonproliferative and proliferative. NPDR describes the earlier stages of the condition, where blood vessels may begin to swell. A person may also start to notice vision changes. PDR refers to the most advanced stage, where new blood vessels develop and serious visual symptoms could develop.
A person with NPDR may not experience any symptoms. However, it can severely affect their vision if the condition progresses. As such, it is important for individuals to manage their diabetes and attend regular eye screenings.