Age Related Macular Degeneration

Question 1

What are the common examination findings?

Answer 1

Central visual loss

Reduced visual acuity

Drusen on fundoscopy

Question 2

What are the investigations?

Answer 2

To finish the exam i would like to - Perfrom a full cranial nerve and ENT exam.

By the bed - History, obs

Other - fluoroscein angiography

Question 3

What is the treatment?

Answer 3

Conservative - Explain what it is and to have regular eye examinations and to seek help if the other eye starts to deteriorate

MDT approach - OT for visual aids and help around the house, regular opthalmology visits

Surgical - Wet (blood) can be treated with laser coagulation. This type is less common but is more serious

Question 4

What are the risk factors?

Answer 4

• Smoking
• FH
• Hypertensio

Question 5

What is it?

Answer 5

Fatty deposits (drusen) that build up and cause macular atrophy

MOST COMMON CAUSE OF VISUAL LOSS IN THE ELDERLY