What is the primary goal of laser photocoagulation in proliferative diabetic retinopathy?

• A. Reduce risk of vision loss by treating neovascularization
• B. Cure diabetes
• C. Increase intraocular pressure
• D. Have no role in management

Answer: (A)

Laser photocoagulation in proliferative diabetic retinopathy is used to control vision-threatening neovascularization. By applying laser burns to the retina, it lowers its oxygen demand and reduces the stimulus for abnormal new vessel growth (VEGF-driven neovascularization). This causes the abnormal vessels to regress and lowers the risk of complications such as vitreous hemorrhage and tractional retinal detachment, ultimately protecting against severe vision loss. It is not a cure for diabetes, and its goal isn’t to change intraocular pressure; it does have an important role in managing proliferative disease, though other treatments like anti-VEGF injections may be used in certain situations as well.