Age Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

Question 1

What is the Amsler chart used for?

Answer 1

It assesses central visual field.

Detects vision problems resulting from damage to the macula or optic nerve.

Question 2

What are the two forms of AMD?

Answer 2

1) Dry (atrophic) macular degeneration

2) Wet (neovascular/exudative ) macular degeneration

Question 3

What is Dry AMD?

Answer 3

Drusen (yellow spots) form on the macula; causing it to deteriorate over time.

It is the more common type of AMD. It is slow progressing and sometimes unnoticeable, so regular eye tests are very important.

Can develop into wet AMD

Question 4

What is wet AMD?

Answer 4

Abnormal blood vessels grow into the retina from the choroid (stimulated by VEGF).
These blood vessels can rupture and bleed –> scarring, scotoma (dark spot).

It is less common, has rapid progression, and results in more severe vision loss.

Question 5

What are the treatment options for wet AMD?

Answer 5

1) Photodynamic therapy

2) Anti-VEGF eye injections (ranibizumab)