Macular degeneration refers to an alteration of the central part of the retina (the macula). It usually affects older adults and is a major cause of blindness and visual impairment. There are two forms: The “dry” (nonexudative) form is caused by deposits (“drusen”) on the macula, which leads to a slowly proceeding impairment of vision. The “wet” (neovascular or exudative) form is more dangerous and can lead to a rapid vision loss if left untreated.

Symptoms

Macular degeneration leads to a loss of central vision. While the peripheral visual field remains intact, loss of the central visual field makes it difficult or impossible to read or recognize faces. In an early stage, macular degeneration results in straight lines being perceived as distorted. An Amsler test is a good tool for early detection of AMD

Treatment

Intravitreal injections have proven to be an effective treatment for macular degeneration. Medications are injected directly into the vitreous body after applying numbing eye drops. Typically, several injections have to be applied over a period of time. This treatment stabilizes the retina, effectively stopping the proceeding degeneration of the macula. Damage already incurred is however normally irreversible. Therefore, early diagnosis and treatment are essential.