[The rational use of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor drugs to assist the treatment of diabetic retinopathy].

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is one of the most important etiologies of diabetic blindness. The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is thought to mediate pathophysiological changes of DR. Anti-VEGF therapy for DRdevelops rapidly. However, there are some misunderstandings about its clinical application, and the strategy is not clear. Sometimes its therapeutic effects are even exaggerated. In this article, by discussing whether anti-VEGF therapy can reverse the course of DR disease, promote the absorption of vitreous hemorrhage, and replace fundus laser therapy, the application strategy of anti-VEGF therapy for DR is proposed. At present, anti-VEGF therapy cannot completely replace retinal photocoagulation therapy, and its clinical application value should not be exaggerated. More innovative drugs and therapies are expected to provide new ways forthe treatment of DR while preserving visual function. (Chin J Ophthalmol, 2019, 55: 565-568).