No data describe the predilection of one racial group developing DME over another group. No data describe the predilection of one sex developing DME over the other sex. It rarely occurs before puberty. Triglycerides and lipids - Normalization of lipid levels reduces retinal leakage and exudates deposition. DME is defined as retinal thickening within 2 disc diameters of the center of the macula.
Focal edema is associated with hard exudate rings resulting from leakage from microaneurysms.
Diffuse edema results from breakdown of blood-retinal barrier with leakage from microaneurysms, retinal capillaries, and arterioles. Poor control of blood sugar increases the risk of diabetic retinopathy. Renal disease can be a marker for the development of diabetic retinopathy. Systemic hypertension increases the risk of diabetic retinopathy. Elevated lipid levels increase the risk of leakage and exudate deposits.