Neovascular Age Related Macular Degeneration
Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) and Neovascularization
Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a chronic eye disease that affects millions of people worldwide, and is the leading cause of vision loss in people over the age of 65. AMD affects the macula, which is the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision, and can severely limit one's ability to drive, read, and recognize faces.
One of the most aggressive forms of AMD is known as neovascular AMD or "wet" AMD, which occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow in the back of the eye. These blood vessels can rupture and bleed, causing further damage to the macula and leading to rapid and severe vision loss. Although neovascular AMD accounts for only 10-15% of all AMD cases, it is responsible for 90% of all severe vision loss from the disease.
Treatment of Neovascular AMD
Treatment options for neovascular AMD can include laser surgery, photodynamic therapy (PDT), and intravitreal injections. Laser surgery is used to seal off leaking blood vessels, while PDT uses a light-sensitive drug to kill the abnormal blood vessels. Intravitreal injections are used to block blood vessel growth, seal off existing abnormal vessels, and reduce inflammation. All of these procedures can help to reduce vision loss from neovascular AMD.
The newest treatment option for neovascular AMD is anti-VEGF therapy, which is the use of a special type of drug to block the effects of VEGF, a protein responsible for abnormal blood vessel growth. Anti-VEGF therapy has been found to be extremely effective in halting further vision loss, and some studies have even shown improvement in vision.
Risk Factors for Neovascular AMD
There are a number of risk factors associated with neovascular AMD, including:
- Advanced age: The risk of developing AMD increases with age. People over the age of 65 have the highest risk.
- Smoking: Smoking doubles the risk of developing AMD.
- Family history: Having family members with AMD increases the risk of developing the condition.
- Race: Caucasians are at a higher risk of developing AMD than other races.
- Gender: Women are more likely to develop AMD than men.
- Diet: People who eat a diet low in fruits and vegetables are at a higher risk of developing AMD compared to those who eat plenty of fruits and vegetables.