AMD
What is it?
AMD (Age-related Macular Degeneration) is a chronic retinal disease that affects the macula, the central area of the retina responsible for fine, detailed vision. It leads to progressive loss of central vision, making reading, writing and face recognition difficult. Peripheral vision remains intact, so total blindness is rare.
The two types of AMD
Dry (atrophic) AMD – 80 to 90% of cases
Slow, gradual evolution over several years.
Accumulation of drusen (yellow deposits under the retina).
Thinning of the macula, leading to blurred vision.
No cure, but dietary supplements can slow its evolution.
Wet (exudative) AMD – 10-20% of cases
Rapid, more aggressive evolution.
Formation of abnormal blood vessels under the retina, leading to bleeding and scarring.
Key symptom: distortion of straight lines (metamorphopsia).
Possible treatment: intraocular anti-VEGF injections to block the growth of abnormal vessels.
Risk factors
✅ Age (increased risk after age 50).
✅ Genetic factors (family history).
✅ Tobacco (major aggravating factor).
✅ Hypertension, cardiovascular disease.
✅ Prolonged exposure to UV and blue light.
✅ Diet low in antioxidants and omega-3s.
Symptoms of AMD
❌ Blurred or distorted vision in the center.
❌ Difficulty reading or seeing details.
❌ Appearance of a central black spot in advanced vision.
❌ Sensation of lack of light indoors.
❌ Metamorphopsia (straight lines that appear wavy).
Amsler test
Fix the central point, cover the right eye, then the left. If one or more lines are missing, or if they are distorted or wavy, or if there is a dark spot in the grid, consult your ophthalmologist as soon as possible.
Diagnosis of AMD
👁 Fond d’œil: Examination of the retina.
👁 OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography): Analysis of retinal layers.
👁 Fluorescein angiography: To detect abnormal vessels (wet AMD).
Treatment of AMD
🚫 No cure, but treatments to slow progression:
🔹 Dry AMD:
Dietary supplements rich in omega-3, lutein and antioxidants.
Healthy lifestyle (stop smoking, balanced diet).
🔹 Wet AMD:
Intraocular injections of anti-VEGF agents (ranibizumab, aflibercept) to stop the growth of abnormal vessels.
Laser or photodynamic therapy in certain cases.
Secrétariat DMLA Ophtalmologie Chénieux : 05 55 45 47 26