Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

About Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a common condition that is seen in 30% of patients over the age of 65 years, usually in its mild form. It is a condition that affects the central part of the retina, known as the macula. The macula is responsible for our central fine vision, our reading vision, our colour vision and vision for close work.

Wet AMD is less common but more severe. Abnormal blood vessels, choroidal neovascularisation, grow underneath the retina and cause damage by leaking and bleeding. This can cause the central vision to deteriorate more quickly, often in weeks to days. Without treatment, eventually the central vision is lost. It needs to be diagnosed and treated early in order to get the best outcome.

Dry AMD is slow progressing due to the ongoing wear and tear of the macula. Currently there are no treatment options available.