The management of diabetic eye disease.

Many diabetics go through life without ocular examination until complications begin. Ophthalmological consultation should be annual, and ocular complications are best prevented by tight control of blood sugar, best achieved at present with the insulin pump. This article describes diagnosis and management of diabetic retinopathy according to type of diabetes. It also describes indications for pars plana vitrectomy, cataract removal and lens implant. Close cooperation between family physician and ophthalmologist ensures prompt intervention to preserve vision.