Classification of diabetic retinopathy: from screening to diagnosis

The global incidence and prevalence of diabetes mellitus have reached epidemic proportions. Estimates indicate that more than 350 million people will be affected by diabetes mellitus by 2030. All of these individuals will be at risk of developing diabetic retinopathy (DR). It is necessary to categorize, classify and stage the severity of DR in order to provide adequate therapy. With proper management more than 90% of cases of visual loss can be prevented. The purpose of this presentation is to review the classification of DR with a special emphasis on the International Clinical Disease Severity Scale for DR. This new classification is simple to use, easy to remember and based on scientific evidence. It is based on clinical examination and applying the Early Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy Study 4:2:1 rule. Together with general medical information it allows a risk based assessment. Specialized examinations such as optical coherence tomography or fluorescein angiography support treatment decisions.