Detection of Severity in Diabetic Retinopathy

Automated early detection of exudates in retinal images is a challenging task. With the global diabetic population increasing at an alarming rate, there is need for development of automated systems for detection of exudates. In several patients, the only visible symptoms of Diabetic retinopathy are Exudates. The main obstacle in exudates detection is extreme variability of color and contrast in retinal images that depends on the degree of pigmentation, size of the pupil and illumination. The aim of this project is to automate the system to detect and grade the severity of Diabetic retinopathy. Diabetic patients who have had diabetes for more than five years are likely to develop some form of Diabetic Retinopathy. Only regular screening can result in early detection and effective management of Diabetic Retinopathy. Patients should get their both eyes screened at least once in a year. These screening programs generate large number of images and processing of which is time consuming process. Automated diabetic Retinopathy can save time and reduce the workload of ophthalmologists. Developing strategies for screening large population for early detection of Diabetic Retinopathy is engaging attention of several groups in India. Automated grading is less costly and of similar effectiveness, it is likely to be considered a cost effective alternative to manual grading.