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Age-Related Macular Degeneration (Detailed)

Leading cause of irreversible central vision loss in adults over 50.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Göz Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Age-Related Macular Degeneration (Detailed)?

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a chronic, progressive degenerative disease of the central retina (macula) and the leading cause of irreversible central vision loss in adults over 50. It is classified into dry (non-exudative, ~85-90%) and wet (exudative/neovascular, ~10-15%) forms.

Dry AMD features drusen, retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) changes and geographic atrophy. Wet AMD involves choroidal neovascularization (CNV) with subretinal fluid, hemorrhage and disciform scar. AREDS2 supplementation slows progression of intermediate dry AMD; intravitreal anti-VEGF (ranibizumab, aflibercept, faricimab) is the standard for wet AMD.

Symptoms

Gradual central visual blur
Metamorphopsia (straight lines appearing wavy) on Amsler grid
Central scotoma in advanced disease
Difficulty reading and recognizing faces
Decreased contrast sensitivity
Sudden vision loss in wet AMD with CNV
Preserved peripheral vision

Risk Factors

Age over 60
Smoking (most modifiable risk factor)
Family history and CFH/ARMS2 polymorphisms
Caucasian ethnicity
Hypertension and cardiovascular disease
Obesity and Western-pattern diet
Cumulative ultraviolet light exposure

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • New metamorphopsia or central distortion
  • Sudden central vision loss
  • Decreased reading vision over weeks
  • Family history of AMD with age over 50
  • Annual screening eye examination after 65
  • Worsening symptoms despite anti-VEGF therapy

Treatment Methods

01
Smoking cessation and Mediterranean diet
02
AREDS2 supplementation (vitamin C, E, zinc, lutein, zeaxanthin)
03
Home Amsler grid monitoring for wet AMD conversion
04
Intravitreal anti-VEGF (ranibizumab, aflibercept, faricimab) for wet AMD
05
Treat-and-extend or pro re nata dosing strategies
06
Photodynamic therapy with verteporfin in select polypoidal cases
07
Complement C3/C5 inhibitors (pegcetacoplan, avacincaptad) for geographic atrophy
08
Low vision rehabilitation and visual aids
09
Long-term retinal specialist follow-up with OCT

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Göz Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Göz Hastalıkları Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.