What is Macular Degeneration?
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a deterioration of the retina and choroid that leads to substantial loss in visual acuity. It affects the macula, the small central area of the retina responsible for detailed color vision. AMD is a leading cause of vision loss in adults over 50.
Types of Macular Degeneration
Dry AMD (85% of cases)
Characterized by drusen deposits and can progress to geographic atrophy. This is the more common, slower-progressing form of the disease.
New Treatments Available
Syfovre (pegcetacoplan) and Izervay (avacincaptad pegol) are now available for geographic atrophy
Wet AMD (15% of cases)
Features choroidal neovascularization where abnormal blood vessels grow beneath the retina. Less common but more serious form that can cause rapid vision loss.
Excellent Treatment Success
Anti-VEGF treatment has dramatically improved outcomes since 2005
Understanding the Disease
Risk Factors
- • Age (primary risk factor - older patients have greater risk)
- • Family history of AMD
- • Female gender
- • Caucasian or European descent
- • Smoking history
- • Cardiovascular disease
Symptoms by Stage
Early Stages
Often asymptomatic - regular eye exams are crucial for detection
Intermediate Dry AMD
Difficulty reading in dim light, decreased color intensity, early distortion
Advanced Dry AMD (Geographic Atrophy)
Marked distortion of straight lines, difficulty with night driving, gradual central vision loss, dark/blurry central areas
Wet AMD
Sudden/gradual visual acuity decrease, central blind spots, distortion of straight lines
Diagnostic Methods
Comprehensive Dilated Eye Exam
Complete retinal evaluation
OCT Imaging
Detailed cross-sectional images
Fluorescein Angiography
For wet AMD evaluation
Amsler Grid Testing
Detects distortion and changes
Treatment Options
Wet AMD Treatment
Anti-VEGF intravitreal injections (primary treatment) with excellent outcomes since 2005
Treatment regimens include "treat and extend" or "pro re nata" protocols
Advanced Dry AMD
Syfovre (pegcetacoplan) and Izervay (avacincaptad pegol) for geographic atrophy
New FDA-approved treatments to slow progression
Intermediate Dry AMD
AREDS nutritional supplements
Specific vitamins and minerals to slow progression
Prevention & Management
- • AREDS nutritional supplements for intermediate stages
- • Regular eye examinations
- • Amsler grid monitoring at home
- • Lifestyle modifications (diet, smoking cessation)
- • UV protection
- • Control blood pressure and cholesterol
Home Monitoring Tool
Use the Amsler grid test at home to monitor your vision between appointments and catch changes early.
Access Amsler Grid TestExcellent Prognosis with Modern Treatment
Wet AMD: Anti-VEGF treatment has dramatically improved outcomes since 2005, with patients maintaining central vision for reading, driving, and face recognition.
Dry AMD: Variable progression, with new treatments now available to slow geographic atrophy progression.