Age-Related Macular Degeneration Sabrina Carter & Kori Eakin

Basic Description A progressive, adventitious disease associated with aging (50 years of age or older) that gradually destroys sharp , central vision. Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) Two forms Wet-blood vessels behind the retina start to grow under the macula, often leaking blood and fluid. This raises the macula from its normal place. Early symptom of wet AMD is that straight lines appear wavy. Dry-light sensitive cells in the macula slowly break down blurring central vision. One of the most common signs of dry AMD is drusen. Drusen are yellow deposits under the retina. This leads to blurred central vision.

A little more about dry AMD Three stages of dry AMD Early Small drusen and no symptom or vision loss. Intermediate Many medium size drusen or large drusen and many see a blurred spot in their central vision. Advanced A breakdown of light sensitive cells and supporting tissue in the central retinal area. Over time central vision is lost.

A visual of wet and dry AMD

What parts of the Visual System are affected? Macula The macula is located at the center of the retina. It is responsible for central vision needed to see details, color, and bright light.

What are the effects on the condition of the Visual System? Normal Vision Picture as seen by someone who has AMD. Loss of ability to see objects clearly. Straight line appear to be wavy or distorted. Loss of color vision. Dark areas of gray and white spots may appear in the center of vision (central scotomas).

Amsler Grid A set of straight lines with a reference dot in the center. Someone with AMD may see some of the lines as wavy or blurred; with some dark areas at the center.

Treatments of AMD NO outright cure AMD Treatments delay its progression and sometimes improves vision. Nutritional intervention for dry AMD may prevent progression. Taking specific doses of antioxidants and zinc reduces the risk of advanced AMD. For wet AMD some treatments are aimed at stopping abnormal blood vessel growth. Laser surgery Photodynamic therapy An activated drug injection destroys new blood vessels and leads to slower rate of vision decline. Injections in the eye of FDA approved drugs Lucentis Macugen Visudyne

Accommodations and Modifications for daily living. Large print Low vision devices Telescopes Magnifier Audio books, computer technology Adjustment to lighting in the home, work, and/or community Personalized organization techniques Orientation Mobility training Develop healthy relationships with a good support system

References Age-Related Macular Degeneration. (2008). Retrieved July 9, 2008, from National Eye Institute Website: http://nei.nih.gov/health/maculardegen/amd_facts.asp Macular Degeneration. (2008). Retrieved July 14, 2008, from Foundation Fighting Blindness Website: http://www.blindness.org/content.asp?id=46&print=1 Macular Degeneration. (2008). Retrieved July 9, 2008, from Wikipedia Website: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Macular_degeneration Macular Degeneration. (2007). Retrieved July 9, 2008, from St. Lukes Eye Cataract and Laser Institute Website: http://www.stlukeseye.com/Conditions/MacularDegeneration.asp Mogk, L., & Mogk, M. (2003). Macular Degeneration. New York: Random House Inc.