[Diabetic retinopathy, practical value of classification]

In this work will be exposed the modern classification of diabetic retinopathy (DR). The aim is to familiarize ophthalmologist, endocrinologist and therapeutic doctors with the newest and unique tendency of diagnosis of this pathology.

It was effectuated a special literature (recent edited, post 2000) study. The DR classification evolution was studied and the last and to the most common accepted classification the attention was attracted.

The unique in our days validated classification is ETDRS (Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study). One of recent appeared classifications is ALFEDIAM (Association de Langue Francaise pour l'Etude du Diabete et des Maladies Metaboliques) in 1996, derived and simplified from ETDRS classification, in this moment is utilized in France. Non proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR) can be mild, moderate or severe. Proliferative diabetic retinopathy can be early, moderate, severe, complicated. Maculopathy classification by Brescnic adopted in 1983 include focal macular edema, diffuse macular edema, ischemic maculopathy.

ALFEDIAM classification, derived and simplified from the unique international validated classification of DR on our days ETDRS is accessible to all ophthalmologists, and their collaboration with endocrinologist and therapist doctors. The use of ALFEDIAM classification give the possibility of interaction of effectuated work with the materials of international literature.