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VEGF

Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor

Plain-language definition

A signaling protein promoting new blood vessel growth. In eye disease, excess VEGF drives abnormal vessel growth and leakage in wet AMD and diabetic retinopathy.

Expanded explanation

VEGF is the glossary term for Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor. On a full article page, it should be read as a test or diagnostic term term, not as a stand-alone diagnosis or treatment plan.

Diagnostic terms name tests, measurements, imaging techniques, or exam maneuvers. The name of the test is only the starting point; the result and how it fits the symptoms are what guide decisions.

In eye care context

Diagnostic terms describe tests, measurements, imaging, or exam techniques used to understand eye and neuro-ophthalmic problems.

What to look for around this term

  • What the test measures or visualizes and which part of the visual system it evaluates.
  • Whether the result is used for diagnosis, severity grading, monitoring, or treatment planning.
  • Whether repeat testing, comparison with prior results, or correlation with symptoms is important.

Questions this term may raise

  • What does this test measure?
  • Was the result normal or abnormal?
  • Will this test be repeated to track change over time?
Category
Test or diagnostic term
Also written as
No alternate forms listed.

Related glossary terms

  • ACE

    Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme

  • AION

    Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy

  • ANCA

    Anti-Neutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibodies

  • anti-MuSK

    Anti-Muscle-Specific Kinase

  • collagen

    Structural Protein

  • CRP

    C-Reactive Protein

A note on medical context

A glossary definition can explain a word, but it cannot tell you whether a symptom or test result is serious. If this term came from an article, use the full article and your clinician's guidance for context.