Diabetic Macular Edema (DME): Expert Care in Oregon
Diabetic macular edema (DME) is one of the leading causes of vision loss in people with diabetes. It occurs when fluid leaks from damaged blood vessels into the macula — the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. At Retina Care, Dr. Peter Karth, MD, MBA, FASRS, FACS provides comprehensive, locally delivered diagnosis and treatment for DME at every clinic location across Oregon.
What Is Diabetic Macular Edema?
DME is a complication of diabetic retinopathy — the damage diabetes causes to the small blood vessels of the retina. When these vessels are weakened by high blood sugar over time, they can leak fluid and proteins into the macula, causing it to swell. This swelling distorts and blurs central vision, making it difficult to read, drive, or recognize faces. DME can affect people with both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes and can develop at any stage of diabetic retinopathy.
Symptoms of DME
- Blurred or wavy central vision
- Colors appearing washed out or faded
- Straight lines appearing bent or distorted
- A dark or empty spot in the center of vision
- Difficulty reading fine print
DME can develop gradually with minimal early symptoms. Regular dilated eye exams are essential for all diabetic patients to catch DME before significant vision loss occurs.
Diagnosing DME
Dr. Peter Karth uses advanced diagnostic technology at every Retina Care location to evaluate and monitor DME, including Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) for high-resolution cross-sectional imaging of the macula to detect and measure fluid, Fluorescein Angiography to identify leaking blood vessels and areas of retinal damage, and Fundus Photography to document retinal changes over time.
DME Treatment Options
There are several highly effective treatments for DME. Dr. Peter Karth tailors treatment to each patient’s specific condition, response to therapy, and overall health. All treatments are available locally — no long drives required.
Anti-VEGF Injections
Anti-VEGF medications are the first-line treatment for DME, blocking the protein that drives abnormal leakage and fluid accumulation. Dr. Peter Karth offers all currently approved anti-VEGF agents including Vabysmo (faricimab), Eylea HD (aflibercept 8 mg), Eylea (aflibercept 2 mg), Lucentis (ranibizumab), Avastin (bevacizumab), and Pavblu (biosimilar bevacizumab).
Steroid Implants and Injections
For patients who do not respond fully to anti-VEGF therapy, corticosteroid treatments can be highly effective at reducing macular swelling. Options include Ozurdex (dexamethasone implant), Iluvien (fluocinolone acetonide, up to 36 months), and Yutiq (extended-release fluocinolone acetonide).
Laser Treatment
Laser therapy can treat DME in select cases. Dr. Peter Karth offers focal laser photocoagulation targeting specific leaking blood vessels, and micropulse laser — a gentler subthreshold treatment that minimizes damage to surrounding tissue.
Why Local Care Matters for DME
DME often requires frequent monitoring and ongoing injections — sometimes monthly in the early phase of care. Having a board-certified retinal specialist available locally means patients across Oregon can receive consistent, timely care without the burden of long drives to Eugene, Portland, or beyond. Dr. Peter Karth brings fellowship-trained, subspecialty retina care directly to your community.
Schedule an Appointment
If you have diabetes and have been told you may have diabetic macular edema — or if you are experiencing changes in your central vision — contact Retina Care today. Dr. Peter Karth serves patients across Oregon with clinics in Eugene/Springfield, Salem, Roseburg, North Bend/Coos Bay, Bandon, Coquille, Cottage Grove, and surrounding communities.