Diabetic retinopathy: recommendations for primary care management

Diabetic retinopathy is a major cause of vision loss in the elderly, yet it is questionable whether sufficient cases are being diagnosed promptly enough for optimal therapy. The authors summarize the salient features in the development and progression of diabetic retinopathy, review the effectiveness of therapy, and discuss physician performance in conveying this therapy to diabetic patients. The authors emphasize the role of primary care in the referral of these patients.