Maculopathy
General information
What is Maculopathy?
Maculopathy, or Macular Degeneration, is a progressive disease that affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for detailed, sharp, and color vision. This vision is vital for tasks such as reading, recognizing faces, and driving.
Unlike glaucoma, which affects peripheral vision, maculopathy attacks central vision. It is one of the leading causes of severe vision loss in older adults.
Important: Central vision loss caused by maculopathy cannot be recovered, but timely treatment is crucial to stop or slow the progression of the disease and preserve remaining useful vision.
Types of Maculopathy and Treatment Options
Treatment for maculopathy focuses on preserving macular function and limiting damage to the retina.
Dry (Atrophic) Macular Degeneration
Description: This is the most common form and progresses slowly. It occurs when the light-sensitive cells of the macula deteriorate and yellow deposits called drusen accumulate.
Main Treatments:
– Vitamin Supplements (AREDS/AREDS2 Formula): A specific combination of vitamins and minerals that has been shown to slow the progression of the disease in people at intermediate or advanced risk.
– Strict Monitoring: Regular eye exams and the use of the Amsler Grid at home to detect early changes in central vision.
Wet Macular Degeneration (Exudative or Neovascular)
Description: This is the least common but most serious form. It occurs when abnormal blood vessels (neovessels) grow beneath the macula. These vessels leak fluid or blood, which rapidly damages the macular tissue.
Main Treatments:
– Anti-VEGF Injections (Antivascular Therapy): Medications injected directly into the eye to stop the growth of abnormal blood vessels and reduce fluid leakage, stabilizing vision. This is the most common and effective treatment.
– Photodynamic Therapy (PDT): A procedure using a special laser, sometimes used to seal leaking vessels.
Who is a good candidate for a macular degeneration screening?
Early detection is vital, especially for the wet form, which can progress rapidly. The following are risk factors:
Age: Being over 50 years old (the risk increases significantly with age).
Family History: Having immediate family members diagnosed with macular degeneration.
Smoking: Smoking is one of the biggest modifiable risk factors.
Diet: A diet low in fruits and leafy green vegetables (rich in antioxidants).
What to expect during the diagnostic process?
The diagnosis of macular degeneration is quick and non-invasive, but it does require specialized technology:
Fundus Examination (Ophthalmoscopy): The specialist examines the macula directly for drusen and signs of neovascularization.
Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): Measures retinal thickness and detects the presence of fluid or swelling beneath the macula. It is the key diagnostic tool.
Angiography (OCT or Fluorescein Angiography): Performed to map and confirm the presence and location of abnormal blood vessels in the wet form of macular degeneration.
Amsler Grid Test: A simple test where the patient is asked to look at a grid to see if the lines appear distorted or if there is a spot in the center.
If macular degeneration is detected, we will establish a Treatment Plan and a strict Follow-up Schedule to monitor the macula and the stability of your vision.
FAQs
Can maculopathy be cured?
No. Currently, there is no cure for macular degeneration, but the goal of treatment is to control the disease, stop further vision loss, and in many cases, slightly improve the affected vision.
Will I lose my sight completely?
Generally, maculopathy does not cause total blindness, as peripheral (side) vision is usually preserved. However, it can lead to the loss of central vision necessary for reading and recognition.
Are Anti-VEGF injections painful?
No. The eye is numbed with anesthetic drops before the procedure. Patients usually feel slight pressure, but no pain. The procedure is quick and outpatient.
Does quitting smoking help?
Absolutely. Smoking significantly increases the risk and progression of macular degeneration. Quitting smoking is the most important intervention to reduce this risk.
Contact us
If you are over 50, have a family history of macular degeneration, or have noticed any distortion or spots in your central vision, don’t delay your evaluation. Schedule an appointment for a comprehensive eye exam, including OCT diagnostics. Early detection and treatment can save your central vision.
Do you have any questions? We are here to help you
You can write to us, call us, or visit us directly. At VISTA, we work to ensure you have the best experience, from the moment you walk in until you leave with the visual health you deserve.