Macular Degeneration

Question 1

degeneration disease of the central portion of the retina (macula) that results in loss of central vision

Answer 1

macular degeneration

Question 2

chronic macular degeneration that causes some visual impairment that can progress to severe blindness

Answer 2

dry macular degeneration

Question 3

macular degeneration that emerges abruptly (acute) and quickly progresses to blindness if untreated

Answer 3

wet macular degeneration

Question 4

what is the pathophysiology of dry macular degeneration?

Answer 4

drusen accumulation in the retina

Question 5

what effects does drusen have on the retina?

Answer 5

degenerates retinal cells

Question 6

macular degeneration where new blood vessels grow from the choroid towards the retina and leaks fluid within the retina

Answer 6

wet macular degeneration

Question 7

wet macular degeneration causes the macula to _____ and lift up, leading to _____ _____

Answer 7

bulge; vision distortion

Question 8

clinical presentation of difficulty reading/driving, scotomas, or reliance on a brighter light or magnifying glass for fine visual acuity is most consistent with which eye condition?

Answer 8

dry macular degeneration

Question 9

clinical presentation of distortion of straight lines using a amsler grid is most consistent with which eye condition?

Answer 9

wet macular degeneration

Question 10

what will a macular degeneration diagnosis be based on?

Answer 10

history and physical

Question 11

what 3 questions will I ask during a physical for macular degeneration?

Answer 11

1. rate of vision loss
2. one or both eyes
3. distance vs. near vs. total vision loss

Question 12

what physical exam would I do for a patient with macular degeneration?

Answer 12

dilated fundoscopic exam

Question 13

vision loss where periphery can be seen but the vision in the center is obscured or blinding lights are seen

Answer 13

central vision loss

Question 14

what is seen when I perform a dilated eye exam on a patient with dry macular degeneration?

Answer 14

drusen and changes in pigmentation

Question 15

what is seen when I perform a dilated eye exam on a patient with wet macular degeneration?

Answer 15

hemorrhage and neovascularization that looks gray/green in the macula

Question 16

what is a possible treatment for dry macular degeneration?

Answer 16

daily oral eye vitamins

Question 17

what is the first line treatment for wet macular degeneration?

Answer 17

intravitreous injection of growth factor inhibitor

Question 18

what are 2 other treatments/actions for wet macular degeneration?

Answer 18

1. daily oral eye vitamins
2. referral