Rapid Drying and 12-Week Durability in Treatment-Naïve Bilateral DME

In this opening segment, Dr. Maria Berrocal introduces a case-based discussion on real-world management of diabetic macular edema (DME), with a focus on improving retinal drying, extending durability, and reducing patient burden. The conversation explored DME subtypes, treatment selection, and the roles of VEGF, ANG2, and inflammatory cytokines—particularly in severe or poorly controlled patients who respond inadequately to anti-VEGF monotherapy and may benefit from dual VEGF/ANG2 inhibition to reduce leakage and inflammation. Through a detailed patient case, Dr. Berrocal highlights the clinical impact of dual inhibition with faricimab, demonstrating rapid anatomic improvement, visual acuity gains, and successful extension to 12-week dosing despite real-world challenges such as insurance delays. The discussion underscores the potential of dual-pathway targeting to enhance outcomes in difficult-to-treat DME populations.