Retinal diseases such as diabetic retinopathy (DR), neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD), and diabetic macular oedema (DMO) present substantial challenges in current medical practice, primarily due to the side effects and complications associated with prevalent treatments like laser therapy and anti-VEGF injections. Notably, treatments such as pan-retinal photocoagulation can significantly impair night vision and reduce visual fields in DR, while cessation of anti-VEGF therapy can worsen conditions rapidly. Complicating the landscape further, anti-VEGF treatments for nAMD, though effective, have led to complications such as post-treatment geographic atrophy (GA).

This Research Topic aims to enhance the understanding and management of early-stage retinal diseases by focusing on early diagnosis and precisely targeted therapies. The emerging evidence suggests that diabetic retinal neurodegeneration (DRN) occurs before the clinical onset of DR or DMO, which are typically diagnosed based on vasculopathy. Similarly, in AMD, functional lesions or compromises occur before the disease reaches clinical stages. These findings underscore the critical need for earlier intervention to prevent progression and mitigate damage.

Hence, a systematic collection of such research is important for retinal diseases. Through this collection of articles in our research topic, we aim to bring together novel ideas on pathophysiology, potential diagnostic procedures, and management strategies for early-stage retinal diseases. Submissions should target pre-clinical or early-stage DR and DMO, early to intermediate AMD, and other retinal diseases. In a word, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
• Novel diagnostic methods applicable to early-stage diseases
• Advances in imaging technologies for early-stage diagnostics
• Biomarkers targeting early-stage treatments
• Studies about current therapeutic strategies and their effectiveness in early-stage conditions
• Ongoing clinical trials for novel approaches and examining their modalities
• Exploration of gene-based and stem cell therapies

By assembling a comprehensive collection of cutting-edge research, methodologies, and clinical findings, we aim to push the boundaries of how early-stage retinal diseases are diagnosed and treated, offering new hope and possibilities for patients affected by these conditions.

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Frontiers in Medicine

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