Age-Related Macular Degeneration Flashcards
What is age-related macular degeneration (ARMD)?
ARMD is a progressive retinal disorder affecting the macula, leading to central vision loss.
What are the two main types of ARMD?
Dry (non-exudative) and Wet (exudative) ARMD.
What is the prevalence of ARMD?
It is the leading cause of visual impairment in individuals over 50 in developed countries.
What is the macula?
The central part of the retina responsible for detailed central vision.
What is the aetiology of ARMD?
A combination of age, genetic factors, and environmental influences such as smoking and diet.
What are the main symptoms of ARMD?
Gradual loss of central vision, difficulty reading, and distorted vision (metamorphopsia).
What is the pathophysiology of dry ARMD?
Accumulation of drusen (yellow deposits) and atrophy of the retinal pigment epithelium.
What is the pathophysiology of wet ARMD?
Growth of abnormal blood vessels under the retina (choroidal neovascularisation), leading to leakage and scarring.
What are risk factors for ARMD?
Age, smoking, family history, Caucasian ethnicity, and high-fat diet.
What is drusen?
Yellow deposits beneath the retina, often a sign of early dry ARMD.
What are clinical signs of ARMD on fundoscopic examination?
Drusen in dry ARMD; subretinal haemorrhage, fluid, or exudates in wet ARMD.
What investigations are used to diagnose ARMD?
Fundoscopy, optical coherence tomography (OCT), and fluorescein angiography for wet ARMD.
What is the conservative management of dry ARMD?
Lifestyle modifications, such as smoking cessation, UV protection, and a balanced diet with antioxidants.
What is the medical management of wet ARMD?
Intravitreal injections of anti-VEGF agents (e.g., ranibizumab, aflibercept).
What role does optical coherence tomography (OCT) play in ARMD?
OCT provides detailed imaging of the retina, identifying fluid or drusen associated with ARMD.
What are the symptoms of advanced dry ARMD?
Severe central vision loss and difficulty with fine detail tasks, but peripheral vision remains intact.
What are the symptoms of wet ARMD?
Rapid central vision loss, distortion (straight lines appear wavy), and scotomas (blind spots).
What lifestyle changes can reduce the risk of ARMD progression?
Smoking cessation, maintaining a healthy diet, and taking antioxidant supplements (AREDS formula).
What are potential complications of untreated wet ARMD?
Permanent central vision loss due to retinal scarring.
What is the role of anti-VEGF therapy in wet ARMD?
It inhibits vascular endothelial growth factor to reduce abnormal blood vessel growth and leakage.
What is the difference in progression between dry and wet ARMD?
Dry ARMD progresses slowly, whereas wet ARMD can cause rapid vision loss.
What are the differential diagnoses for ARMD?
Diabetic retinopathy, central retinal vein occlusion, and myopic macular degeneration.
What is the prognosis for dry ARMD?
Vision loss is gradual and less severe than wet ARMD, but progression to advanced stages is possible.
What is the prognosis for wet ARMD?
Without treatment, rapid and severe central vision loss occurs; anti-VEGF therapy can stabilise or improve vision in some cases.
Why is early detection of ARMD important?
Early detection allows timely intervention to preserve vision and slow progression.
