disease description
The macula is a small region of the retina responsible for central vision. It contains a very high concentration of cone cells, which contribute to sharp color vision when looking straight ahead.
The cause of AMD is unknown, but major risk factors are age (>60 years old) and smoking. The disease first occurs in its “Dry” form, developing in conjunction with deposits below the retina, and progressing slowly. Symptoms such as central vision loss only emerge in later stages, but damage is irreversible.
In 10-20% of cases, Dry AMD can develop into Wet AMD, where abnormal blood vessel growth and leakage damage retinal cells and eventually lead to blindness.
The cause of AMD is unknown, but major risk factors are age (>60 years old) and smoking. The disease first occurs in its “Dry” form, developing in conjunction with deposits below the retina, and progressing slowly. Symptoms such as central vision loss only emerge in later stages, but damage is irreversible.
In 10-20% of cases, Dry AMD can develop into Wet AMD, where abnormal blood vessel growth and leakage damage retinal cells and eventually lead to blindness.
Treatment options
In wet AMD, treatment focuses on restricting the development of the abnormal blood vessels. There are several methods available, including drugs (Anti-VEGF), laser photocoagulation, and photodynamic therapy. A large-scale study (AREDS) also found that certain supplements (vitamin C, beta carotene etc.) could reduce the risk of dry AMD developing into wet AMD.
However, for dry AMD (encompassing the vast majority of cases), there is no known method to slow down retinal degeneration.
However, for dry AMD (encompassing the vast majority of cases), there is no known method to slow down retinal degeneration.