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Age-Related Macular Degeneration

A progressive eye condition that primarily affects older adults, leading to a loss of vision.

An orange striped cat lies down with it's eyes closed. A dark, blurry circle appears in the center.
An orange striped cat lies down with it's eyes closed.
An orange striped cat lies down with it's eyes closed. A dark, blurry circle appears in the center.

Normal vision vs. Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Overview


Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive eye condition that primarily affects older adults, leading to a gradual loss of central vision. The macula, a small but crucial part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision, becomes damaged over time in individuals with AMD.



Types of AMD


Dry AMD (Non-neovascular)

This more common form occurs when the macula thins and breaks down over time. Small deposits called drusen may also form on the retina. Dry AMD typically progresses slowly and may not cause noticeable vision loss in the early stages.  


Wet AMD (Neovascular) 

In this less common but more severe form, abnormal blood vessels grow beneath the retina and macula. These vessels are fragile and can leak blood and fluid, causing rapid damage to the macula and leading to sudden and severe central vision loss.

Overview


Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive eye condition that primarily affects older adults, leading to a gradual loss of central vision. The macula, a small but crucial part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision, becomes damaged over time in individuals with AMD.



Types of AMD


Dry AMD (Non-neovascular)

This more common form occurs when the macula thins and breaks down over time. Small deposits called drusen may also form on the retina. Dry AMD typically progresses slowly and may not cause noticeable vision loss in the early stages.  


Wet AMD (Neovascular) 

In this less common but more severe form, abnormal blood vessels grow beneath the retina and macula. These vessels are fragile and can leak blood and fluid, causing rapid damage to the macula and leading to sudden and severe central vision loss.

Overview


Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive eye condition that primarily affects older adults, leading to a gradual loss of central vision. The macula, a small but crucial part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision, becomes damaged over time in individuals with AMD.



Types of AMD


Dry AMD (Non-neovascular)

This more common form occurs when the macula thins and breaks down over time. Small deposits called drusen may also form on the retina. Dry AMD typically progresses slowly and may not cause noticeable vision loss in the early stages.  


Wet AMD (Neovascular) 

In this less common but more severe form, abnormal blood vessels grow beneath the retina and macula. These vessels are fragile and can leak blood and fluid, causing rapid damage to the macula and leading to sudden and severe central vision loss.

Related News Articles

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Scientists Uncover Molecular Link Between Wet and Dry Macular Degeneration

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