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Retinal Physician

Article

History and Current Directions of the DRCR Retina Network

More than 2 decades of rigorous and collaborative research have defined treatment paradigms for the management of retinal diseases.

By: Noam D. Rudnick, MD, PhD, Kevin J. Blinder, MD, FASRS, Scott M. Friedman, MD, Christina Y. Weng, MD, MBA
Retinal Physician June 1, 2025 Vol 22, Issue June 2025 Page(s): 10-13

Clinical Scorecard: History and Current Directions of the DRCR Retina Network

At a Glance

CategoryDetail
Condition
Key Mechanisms
Target Population
Care SettingOphthalmology clinics and research networks, including the DRCR Retina Network.

Key Highlights

  • Established in 2002, the DRCR Retina Network conducts pivotal clinical trials for retinal diseases, funded by the National Eye Institute and other sources.
  • Intravitreal anti-VEGF injections have revolutionized the treatment of DME, as shown in Protocol I.
  • Protocol T showed aflibercept's superiority for moderate or worse vision loss in DME, emphasizing its clinical significance.
  • Ranibizumab demonstrated noninferior outcomes compared to PRP for PDR treatment, highlighting its role in clinical practice.
  • The network has expanded to include all retinal diseases, applying successful research strategies, including Protocol AG and AH.

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

  • Utilize the Diabetic Retinopathy Severity Scale for assessing DR severity.

Management

  • Consider anti-VEGF therapy as first-line treatment for DME, referencing Protocol I and Protocol T.
  • PRP remains a standard treatment for PDR, especially in settings with unreliable follow-up.

Monitoring & Follow-up

  • Regular follow-up is essential for patients receiving anti-VEGF treatments, particularly when using PRP.

Risks

  • Monitor for potential complications such as retinal tears and detachments, as noted in Protocol AG and AH.

Patient & Prescribing Data

Aflibercept may be preferred for patients with moderate or worse vision loss, as indicated by Protocol T outcomes.

Clinical Best Practices

  • Incorporate anti-VEGF therapy in treatment plans for DME, referencing Protocol I.
  • Use PRP for patients with PDR, especially in settings with unreliable follow-up, as emphasized in Protocol S.

References