Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a disease that affects a specific area of the retina known as the macula. The macula is the central region of the retina that provides vision for both reading and seeing fine detail at a distance. As the name implies, AMD is more common with advancing age and is the leading cause of vision loss for people over the age of 50 in the Western world. This disease affects 25-30 million people making it one of the most common conditions seen by retinal specialists. AMD is associated with the breakdown of retinal tissues leading to central vision loss. There are two types of AMD referred to as ‘Dry’ and ‘Wet’ forms. Dry AMD is more common and tends to be slower in onset and progression. Patients may be asymptomatic in early stages, but as the disease progresses, vision becomes blurry or distorted making it more difficult to read or see detail. While there is no clinical treatment for dry AMD, studies have shown that the use of certain vitamins can help slow its progression. Patients with a known family history of AMD may benefit from vitamin therapy. Consult your doctor before beginning a vitamin regimen, especially if you smoke or take a blood thinner medication. Patients with dry AMD should monitor their vision daily and if a change is noted, call their ophthalmologist for an immediate evaluation as dry AMD can progress into the more serious form known as ‘Wet’ AMD. Wet AMD is the term used to describe the more aggressive type of macular degeneration. It is referred to as ‘wet’ due to the development of abnormal blood vessels under the retina that have a propensity to bleed. This onset is usually noted by the patient as causing a sudden decline in vision, a central ‘gray spot’ in their vision, or increased distortions of objects viewed.

Fortunately, recent developments in AMD treatment have provided retina specialists the ability to better control this disease. One such treatment, known as Photo Dynamic Therapy or PDT, employs the use of a photo-reactive drug called Visudyne™ which is injected into the bloodstream and collects in the area of abnormal retinal vessels. A special laser is then directed to the site of treatment which activates the drug causing the abnormal vessels to close.

Other treatments include the direct injection of medications into the vitreous, the gel inside the eye that overlies the retina. One such class of compounds, known as VEG-F inhibitors, is effective in preventing the growth of abnormal vessels. AMD treatment is continuing to improve as research is done and more treatments will be available.

Dr. Robert Vogel, Piedmont Eye Center’s experienced retinal specialist, offers the very latest in AMD treatment in our state-of-the-art facility. Come see why Piedmont Eye Center is a leader in advanced AMD treatment. For additional information on AMD, please visit the following online links:

http://www.visudyne.com
http://www.amdalliance.org
RETURN TO RETINA FAQs