Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness for people aged 50 and older in North America. It affects more than 10 million Americans and the prevalence of AMD is projected to increase by over 50% by 2020.
The macula of the eye is responsible for our central, high-resolution vision. It is what allows us to read, see fine detail in pictures, and recognize faces. The macula is the central, posterior part of the retina. The macula contains the densest concentration of photoreceptors in the retina.
Macular degeneration results in the loss of this central vision. There are two types of macular degeneration: "dry" and "wet." About 90% of cases of macular degeneration are the "dry" type. In this type, deterioration of the retina is associated with the formation of small yellow deposits, known as drusen. Retinal thinning caused by the drusen results in central vision loss. At least one intermediate sized drusen is necessary to establish a diagnosis of early AMD.
In the "wet" type, abnormal blood vessels grow under the retina and macula. These new blood vessels may then bleed and leak fluid, causing the macula to bulge or lift, which distorts central vision.
In both types of AMD, central vision loss occurs over time. Patients are often considered legally blind (<20/200 vision), but they don't lose ALL sight. Patients can maintain good peripheral vision.
| Risk Factors Associated with Age-Related Macular Degeneration |
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