Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a progressive degeneration of the central region of the retina called the macula, resulting in a gradual loss of central vision.

AMD is the most common cause of irreversible central vision loss in older adults.

The macula contains a high density of light-sensitive cells that produce the sharpest visual images and are responsible for central vision and color perception.

CausasCausasCauses

Causes

  • Age is the most important risk factor.
  • Family history
  • Genetic factors may predispose individuals to develop the disease
  • Smoking
  • Sun exposure
  • Iris color (more common in light-colored eyes)
  • Deficiency of natural nutrients present in the retina (diet low in omega-3 fatty acids)
  • High blood pressure
  • Cardiovascular diseases
  • Obesity

Although most cases begin with drusen (deposits of waste material in the retina), there are two possible forms of progression:

Dry AMD

This is the most common form, affecting approximately 80–90% of people with AMD. Vision loss is very slow.
The macular tissue gradually thins as photoreceptors disappear.

Wet AMD

This form is less common (10–20%) but more severe because vision loss occurs very rapidly. Abnormal blood vessels grow and leak blood and fluid. Eventually, a scar develops beneath the fovea.

SíntomasSíntomasSymptoms

Symptoms

  • Progressive decrease in vision (over days or weeks)
  • Distorted perception of images (seeing lines as crooked or wavy)
  • Appearance of dark spots in the central visual field
  • If these symptoms occur, you should consult an ophthalmologist, as they may be early signs of AMD
DiagnósticoDiagnósticoDiagnosis

Diagnosis

  • Eye examination (ophthalmoscopy): The retinal lesion can often be observed even before symptoms develop.
  • Color fundus photography, fluorescein angiography (contrast test), and in most cases optical coherence tomography (OCT) are used to confirm the diagnosis.
  • OCT (retinal scan) allows not only diagnosis but also evaluation and monitoring of treatment response.
TratamientoTratamientoTreatment

Treatment

First, it is important to follow preventive recommendations for AMD:

  • Quit smoking
  • Avoid direct sun exposure to the eyes by wearing UVA/UVB-protective sunglasses
  • Regular eye check-ups starting at age 55, especially if there is a family history
  • Diet: Scientific studies have shown that daily intake of certain nutrients may reduce the risk of developing AMD. These nutrients include zinc, vitamins C and E, copper, lutein, zeaxanthin, and omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA).

Dry AMD

Primary prevention and prevention of disease progression are very important. Modify risk factors whenever possible (diet, smoking, sun exposure, etc.).

Wet AMD

There are antiangiogenic drugs (Lucentis, Eylea, Avastin) administered as intraocular injections.

These injections must be repeated, but they can reduce the risk of vision loss and help restore sufficient vision for reading in about one-third of affected patients.

Specialties:
  • Oftalmology