Macular Degeneration
Macular degeneration is where the
center of the inner lining of the eye, known as the
macula area of the retina, suffers thinning, atrophy,
and in some cases bleeding.
This can result in loss of central vision, which entails
inability to see fine details, to read, or to recognize
faces. Macular degeneration is leading cause of central
vision loss (blindness) and in the United States today
for those over the age of fifty years.
Cause of Macular Degeneration
Symptoms & Diagnosis
Macular degeneration is typified by:
- Blurred vision - may be a gradual loss or a rapid
onset of vision loss.
- Central scotomas - shadows or missing areas of
vision
- Distorted vision - a grid of straight lines appears
wavy and parts of the grid may appear blank.
- Trouble discerning colors - especially between
colors of similar darkness or lightness.
- Slow recovery - of visual function after exposure
to bright light
Amsler Grid
Macular Degeneration can be tested with the Amsler
Grid. This simple and effective test helps to monitor
the function of the macula or central area of vision.
Fluorescein Angiogram
Fluorescein angiography is also used to identify and
localize any abnormal vascular processes. Optical coherence
tomography is now used by most ophthalmologists in the
diagnosis and the followup evaluation of the response
to treatment by using either Avastin or Lucentis which
are injected into the vitreous of the eye at various
intervals.
Prevention
& Treatment Of Macular Degeneration
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