Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a common complication of diabetes and is a leading cause of blindness in the working-age population. Glycemic variability (GV) refers to the degree of fluctuation in blood glucose levels. Recent studies have shown that GV is closely related to the metabolic status and microvascular complications in patients with diabetes. This article reviews the impact of glycemic variability (GV) on diabetic retinopathy (DR) and the latest research progress.GV is defined as the unstable state of blood glucose levels fluctuating between highs and lows, which is categorized into long-term GV and short-term GV. Long-term GV is mainly assessed through fasting plasma glucose (FPG), postprandial plasma glucose (PPG), and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c). Short-term GV is quantified by indicators such as the standard deviation of blood glucose (SD), coefficient of variation (CV), and low blood glucose index (LBGI).Studies have shown that GV is an important risk predictor for both macrovascular and microvascular complications in diabetic patients, being closely associated with conditions such as coronary artery syndrome, myocardial infarction, stroke, diabetic nephropathy, and peripheral neuropathy. Regarding DR, GV is likely a risk factor for its progression. High GV can exacerbate oxidative stress, inflammatory responses, endothelial dysfunction, and neovascularization, thereby promoting the development of DR.Treatment strategies include continuous glucose monitoring systems, pharmacological interventions (such as basal insulin, alogliptin, etc.), as well as proper diet and exercise. These approaches can improve GV, reduce the risk of complications, and enhance patients' prognosis and quality of life.