Macular Degeneration
What is Macular Degeneration?
Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a degenerative disease of the choroid and retina. The choroid is a layer of dense blood vessels and extra cellular connective tissue scaffolds that functions to nourish the retina. AMD typically affects people above the age of 65. There are two forms of AMD, dry AMD, and wet AMD. Dry AMD typically progresses slowly and is characterized by the buildup of extra cellular debris called drusen and regions of retinal thinning called geographic atrophy. Wet AMD can cause sudden vision loss and is characterized by the growth of abnormal blood vessels in the retina. The development of these abnormal blood vessels is called choroidal neovascularization.
Clinical Manifestations
Symptoms of AMD can be sudden central vision loss, difficulty reading, and straight lines appearing wavy. Decreases color vision and a central region of blurry vision can be symptoms of AMD.
Age-related Macular Degeneration Risk Factors
- Age greater than 65 years old
- Family history of AMD
- Smoking
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of age-related macular degeneration is made by a dilated eye exam by an ophthalmologist or an optometrist. Additionally, optical coherence tomography (OCT), fundus auto fluorescence (FAF) and fluorescein angiography (FA) are clinical imaging studies that aid in diagnosis and monitoring of age-related macular degeneration.
Treatment
We currently have many FDA approved treatment options for age-related macular degeneration. Intravitreal anti-Vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEFG) agents such as faricimab, brolucizumab, aflibercept and ranibizumab are FDA-approved for the treatment of wet AMD. The age-related eye disease study found dietary supplements (AREDS-2) decrease the risk of progression of dry AMD. In early 2023, pegcetacoplan was approved by the FDA for the treatment of dry AMD. Additionally, some patients with AMD may benefit from laser treatments. Currently there are multiple gene therapy clinical trials for AMD which aim for durable treatment. Please call to schedule a visit at Genetic Eye Therapies if you would like to learn more about these exciting therapies.
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