[Current trends in the screening for diabetic retinopathy]

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Diabetology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Global diabetes incidence is rising, leading to increased cases of vision loss and blindness from diabetic retinopathy (DR).
• Diabetic retinopathy is often asymptomatic in early stages, making early detection through screening programs essential for effective treatment.
• Current DR screening programs face challenges that necessitate advancements in diagnostic approaches.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the principles, criteria, and challenges of current digital fundus photography-based DR screening programs.
• To highlight the role of biomarkers in DR screening.
• To explore emerging screening technologies and methodologies.

Main Methods:

• Review of current DR screening programs utilizing digital fundus photography.
• Description of various imaging techniques for visualizing retinal pathologies: fluorescence angiography, optical coherence tomography (OCT), OCT angiography, and laser scanning ophthalmoscopy.
• Exploration of new screening avenues including telemedicine, artificial intelligence (AI), and mobile photo-registering devices.

Main Results:

• Digital fundus photography is a cornerstone of current DR screening.
• Specific retinal changes and biomarkers visualized through advanced imaging techniques show potential for DR screening.
• Emerging technologies like AI and telemedicine offer promising new avenues for DR screening and management.

Conclusions:

• Effective DR screening is critical for preventing vision loss in the growing diabetic population.
• Advanced imaging techniques and biomarkers enhance the potential for early DR detection.
• Innovative approaches such as AI and telemedicine are poised to revolutionize DR screening programs.