What is AMD?
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of low vision in individuals over the age of 50 in industrialized countries.
During aging, there is an accumulation of cellular waste in the cells of the retinal pigment epithelium. This, associated with inflammatory mechanisms, oxidative stress and alterations of the underlying vascular layers, causes damage to the functioning of photoreceptor cells and therefore visual impairment.
Risk factors have been identified in addition to aging: genetic factors, tobacco, unbalanced diet, obesity.
Clinical forms
Atrophic (dry) AMD
The photoreceptors are gradually destroyed with a variable course. The treatment, aimed at limiting the extension of the area of atrophy, consists of:
- Balancing cardiovascular risk factors
- Stop smoking
- Eat a balanced diet by supplementing with antioxidants (Vitamin C, E, zinc, lutein, zeaxanthin, copper)
Exudative (neovascular) AMD
A newly formed vessel under the retina causes exudation and major architectural deformation, resulting in significant visual impairment. The treatment consists of intravitreal injection of anti-VEGF, making it possible to regress (temporarily or permanently) the responsible vessel, to reduce exudation and anatomical deformation. Your doctor will adapt the injection rhythm according to the monitoring which must be very regular.
Symptoms to watch out for
Any symptom of AMD should see an ophthalmologist quickly:
- Decreased visual acuity
- Metamorphopsias (straight lines appearing distorted)
- Central scotoma (large fixed dark spot in the visual axis)
Low vision and rehabilitation
In all severe cases, orthoptic rehabilitation for low vision can be fully beneficial in helping the patient with their visual disability.