Microvascular complications of diabetes mellitus such as diabetic retinopathy and diabetic maculopathy continue to be the most frequent causes for blindness in working-age adults in industrialized countries. This is only surpassed by age-related macular degeneration in higher age groups. While a few years ago only about 5 per cent of the population suffered from diabetes, a massive increase in the prevalence of up to 16 per cent must be expected. This issue consists of review articles on the pathogenesis of diabetic retinopathy and maculopathy as well as their classification and staging. On that basis up-to-date therapeutic modalities are discussed in detail. Ophthalmologists and diabetes health care professionals as well as internists and pediatrists interested in diabetic eye disease will find a wealth of topical information in this special issue.