Makuladegeneraation

Makuladegeneration, commonly called macular degeneration in English, is a medical condition that affects the macula, the central portion of the retina responsible for fine central vision. It is a leading cause of vision loss among older adults and occurs most often as a result of aging. The disease is categorized into two main forms, dry (atrophic) and wet (neovascular).

Dry AMD is the most common form and usually progresses slowly as cells in the macula degenerate, potentially leading to geographic atrophy. Wet AMD is less common but can cause rapid central vision loss due to abnormal blood vessels that leak fluid or blood.

Risk factors include increasing age, genetics, smoking, obesity, hypertension, and a diet low in leafy vegetables and omega-3 fatty acids. Family history raises risk, and regular eye examinations from midlife onward help detect changes early.

Diagnosis relies on tests of vision and specialized retinal imaging, such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) and fluorescein angiography, along with patient-reported symptoms. Some patients notice distortions on an Amsler grid or blurred central vision.

Treatment depends on the form. Wet AMD is treated with intravitreal injections that inhibit vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), sometimes combined with laser therapy. Dry AMD currently has no cure, but certain AREDS2 vitamin supplements may slow progression in selected cases, together with lifestyle changes and vision aids.