Although cellular and molecular bases of proliferative diabetic retinopathy are only partially understood, it is evident that this\r\ncomplication of diabetes is characterized by the formation of new vessels inside the retina showing abnormal architecture and\r\npermeability. This process, if not controlled by selective laser photocoagulation, leads to irreversible retinal damages and loss of\r\nvision. Angiogenesis, that is, the condition characterized by the growth of new blood vessels originated from preexisting ones,\r\nwas shown to have a major role in the pathogenesis of proliferative retinopathy and, as a consequence, intravitreal antiangiogenic\r\ninjection was suggested as a feasible treatment for this disease. Here, we describe the different antiangiogenic approaches used\r\nto treat this disease along with the respective advantages and limitations when compared to laser treatment. Altogether, even\r\nthough further and longer studies are still needed to clarify the best possible therapeutic protocol, the antiangiogenic treatment\r\nwill reasonably have a future role in the therapy and prevention of proliferative diabetic retinopathy.
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