Sunir J. Garg, MD of the Wills Eye Retina Service explains Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy.

Proliferative diabetic retinopathy is a more advanced stage of diabetic retinopathy. This occurs when the small blood vessels that deliver oxygen to the retina get damaged, and the body makes new, abnormal blood vessels (neovascularization). These abnormal blood vessels are fragile and can bleed and pull on the retina as they grow. Bleeding into the vitreous cavity of the eye (vitreous hemorrhage) can result in sudden and sometimes severe loss of vision. This type of hemorrhage is painless and, early on, may be seen as cobweb-like floaters in one’s vision. New floaters and any sudden vision change in a person with diabetic retinopathy should be evaluated promptly by an ophthalmologist. Proliferative diabetic retinopathy can also lead to traction retinal detachments. The retinal neovascularization can grow to be large and then contract, pull, and lift the retina. Retinal detachment can lead to loss of vision if it involves the macula.Wills Eye recommends annual eye exams in order to monitor changes in the eye and prevent vision loss.