In 85% of cases, age-related macular degeneration progresses slowly as deposits known as drusen accumulate under the retina. In 10%, however, abnormal blood vessels grow and leak fluid onto the macula which rapidly reduces vision in what’s known as wet age-related macular degeneration.

Visudyne and Lucentis medications are used to treat wet AMD by shining laser lights into the eyes to activate these drugs, thus dissolving abnormal blood vessels and killing the diseased retinal pigment epithelium cells.

Dry Age-Related Macular Degeneration (Dry AMD)

Dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which accounts for about 85% of cases of AMD, is the most widespread type. Drusen deposits form under the retina, disrupting light-sensing cells within the macula and gradually leading to central vision loss. While small numbers and sizes of drusen deposits are expected and even desirable in certain situations, increased numbers and sizes increase the risk of progression to wet forms of macular degeneration.

Wet macular degeneration is characterized by abnormal blood vessels leaking fluid onto retinal tissues and leading to permanent visual impairment. An estimated 15% of people with dry macular degeneration progress to wet form of macular degeneration over time.

Macular degeneration affects vision gradually over time until permanent loss of central vision cannot be reversed. Although research suggests certain vitamins and minerals may slow this rate of vision loss, a cure for macular degeneration has yet to be discovered.

Early diagnosis of macular degeneration is essential. Your eye doctor will conduct an eye exam to detect any telltale signs, such as an amsler grid. It is vital that this chart be reviewed on a regular basis in order for him/her to spot changes to central vision.