Which of the following is a common finding indicating proliferative changes in diabetic retinopathy?

• A. Macular edema
• B. Retinal detachment
• C. New blood vessel growth
• D. Vitreous hemorrhage

Answer: (C)

Proliferative changes in diabetic retinopathy are driven by retinal ischemia that triggers new, fragile vessels to grow—the hallmark is neovascularization on the retina or optic disc (and sometimes into the iris). This neovascular growth signals a shift from non-proliferative to proliferative disease. These vessels are prone to leakage and can bleed into the vitreous, contributing to vision problems and potential tractional retinal detachment. Macular edema, while common in diabetes, is swelling that can occur at any stage and is not the defining feature of proliferative disease. Retinal detachment can occur as a complication, but it’s not the characteristic finding of proliferative changes.