makulopaatia

Makulopatia refers to a group of degenerative eye conditions that affect the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. The macula is crucial for tasks such as reading, driving, and recognizing faces, so damage to this area can significantly impair central vision while peripheral vision often remains unaffected.

The most common form of makulopatia is age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which typically develops in older adults. AMD can be classified into two types: dry (non-neovascular) and wet (neovascular). Dry AMD is characterized by the gradual thinning of the macula due to the accumulation of drusen, yellow deposits under the retina. Wet AMD involves abnormal blood vessel growth beneath the macula, leading to rapid vision loss if untreated. Other causes of makulopatia include genetic disorders such as Stargardt disease, cystoid macular edema, and central serous retinopathy, which may result from fluid leakage under the retina.

Symptoms of makulopatia often include blurred or distorted central vision, difficulty adjusting to low light, and blind spots in the center of the visual field. Some individuals may experience gradual vision loss over time, while others may notice sudden changes, particularly in cases of wet AMD or central serous retinopathy.

Diagnosis typically involves a comprehensive eye examination, including dilated pupil tests to inspect the retina, optical coherence tomography (OCT) to visualize retinal layers, and fluorescein angiography to assess blood flow. Early detection and intervention are critical for managing symptoms and slowing progression.

Treatment options vary depending on the underlying cause. For wet AMD, anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) injections can help reduce abnormal blood vessel growth. Dry AMD and other forms of makulopatia may require nutritional supplements, such as vitamins C, E, zinc, and lutein, to support eye health. Lifestyle modifications, including quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy diet, and regular exercise, may also help reduce risk factors. In some cases, low-vision aids or assistive devices can improve quality of life for affected individuals.