Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a common eye condition that affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. As the name suggests, AMD is related to aging and is one of the leading causes of vision loss in people over the age of 50.
There are two main types of AMD:
- Dry AMD: The more common form, characterized by the gradual thinning of the macula over time.
- Wet AMD: A less common but more serious form that occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow under the retina and leak fluid or blood, causing rapid vision loss.
"At Mahajan Eye Centre, we provide expert care for both types of AMD, using the latest diagnostic tools and treatment options to preserve your vision."
AMD typically affects central vision, making tasks like reading, recognizing faces, or driving difficult. Early signs may be subtle, but as the disease progresses, symptoms may include:
- Blurred or fuzzy vision.
- Difficulty seeing fine details, even with glasses.
- Dark or empty areas in the center of vision.
- Straight lines appearing wavy or distorted (a key symptom of wet AMD).
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to see an eye specialist right away for an evaluation.
1. Dry AMD
- Dry AMD is the more common form, accounting for about 85-90% of AMD cases. It progresses slowly as the macula thins over time. In its early stages, patients may notice little to no vision loss, but as it advances, central vision deteriorates.
2. Wet AMD
- Wet AMD is more severe and occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow under the retina, leaking fluid or blood. This form can cause rapid vision loss and requires urgent treatment to prevent further damage.
At Mahajan Eye Centre, we use advanced diagnostic tools to detect AMD at its earliest stages and monitor its progression.
Diagnostic Methods:
- Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): This imaging test provides detailed cross-sectional images of the retina, allowing us to see changes in the macula, such as thinning or the presence of fluid.
- Fundus Photography: High-resolution images of the retina help track changes over time, allowing us to monitor the progression of AMD.
- Fluorescein Angiography: This test involves injecting a dye into the bloodstream and taking images of the retina to detect leaking blood vessels in wet AMD.
- Amsler Grid Test: A simple grid pattern test used to detect distortions in vision, which can indicate macular damage from wet AMD.
While there is no cure for AMD, various treatments can slow its progression and, in some cases, improve vision, especially in wet AMD.
1. Anti-VEGF Injections for Wet AMD
Anti-VEGF (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor) injections are the most effective treatment for wet AMD. These injections help block the growth of abnormal blood vessels under the retina and reduce fluid leakage, preventing further vision loss.
Common Anti-VEGF Injections for AMD:(hyperlink to anti-vegf detail page)
- Bevacizumab (Avastin)
- Usage: Originally developed as a cancer drug, Avastin is used off-label to treat wet AMD due to its cost-effectiveness.
- Cost: Most affordable option, but requires frequent injections.
- Ranibizumab (Accentrix)
- Usage: Specifically developed for ocular use, Ranibizumab is highly effective in treating wet AMD.
- Cost: More expensive than Avastin, but widely used for its strong safety profile.
- Aflibercept (Eylea)
- Usage: Eylea blocks both VEGF and PlGF (Placental Growth Factor), offering broader treatment and a longer duration of action.
- Cost: Higher than Avastin and Ranibizumab, but with fewer injections needed over time.
- Brolucizumab (Pagenax)
- Usage: A newer anti-VEGF drug designed for treating wet AMD with longer dosing intervals.
- Duration of Action: Can be injected every 12 weeks, reducing the frequency of injections compared to other treatments.
- Faricimab (Vabysmo)
- Usage: The first dual-action anti-VEGF that targets VEGF-A and Angiopoietin-2, providing longer-lasting effects.
- Duration of Action: Injections can be spaced up to 16 weeks apart, making it a convenient option for long-term treatment.
2. Supplements for Dry AMD
For patients with dry AMD, specific AREDS2 (Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2) supplements, which include vitamins C and E, zinc, copper, lutein, and zeaxanthin, can slow down the progression of the disease, particularly in the intermediate to advanced stages.
3. Laser Treatments
In certain cases of wet AMD, laser therapy may be used to destroy abnormal blood vessels that are causing vision loss. However, this treatment is less commonly used today due to the effectiveness of anti-VEGF injections.
Monitoring AMD Progression
"At Mahajan Eye Centre, regular monitoring is key to managing AMD effectively. Patients with dry AMD may be asked to use an Amsler Grid at home to check for changes in their vision, while those with wet AMD will need regular follow-up appointments to monitor the effectiveness of their treatments."
At Mahajan Eye Centre, we specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of vitreoretinal diseases. Our advanced technology and expert care ensure optimal outcomes for every patient.
Advanced Diagnostics for Retinal Diseases
We understand that early and accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment of retinal diseases. That’s why we’ve invested in world-class diagnostic equipment, ensuring precise assessment of retinal conditions:
Zeiss Cirrus OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography)
Provides high-resolution cross-sectional images of the retina, essential for diagnosing macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and other retinal diseases.
Kowa Fundus Photography/ Angiography System
A cutting-edge imaging technique that captures detailed images of retinal blood vessels, helping in the diagnosis of vascular conditions such as retinal vein occlusions and diabetic retinopathy.
Zeiss Humphrey Visual Fields
Essential for assessing visual field defects, particularly in conditions such as glaucoma and retinal degenerations.
Appasamy Marvel Ultrasound B-Scan
Provides detailed images of the retina and vitreous when the view is obscured, making it invaluable in diagnosing retinal detachments, tumors, or vitreous hemorrhage.
Advanced Vitreo-Retinal Surgeries and Treatments
Our centre is equipped with ultra-modern technology to perform the most intricate vitreo-retinal surgeries with precision and safety.
High-Speed Microincision Vitrectomy Machine:
At Mahajan Eye Centre, we use the state-of-the-art Retikare Vitrectomy Machine, capable of performing vitrectomy at an impressive 7500 cuts per minute. This high-speed precision tool allows for safer and more efficient surgical procedures by minimizing traction on the retina, reducing the risk of complications, and improving surgical outcomes. The machine's advanced fluidics ensure stable intraocular pressure throughout the procedure, providing a smoother experience for both the surgeon and the patient. This technology enables us to handle complex retinal cases with confidence and deliver superior results.
Zeiss Visulas 532 Green Laser – Efficient Retinal Laser
This state-of-the-art laser machine is used for retinal laser treatments, including panretinal photocoagulation for diabetic retinopathy and focal laser for macular edema. The laser isalso used for treating retinal hole and tears. The precision of the 532 nm green laser ensures effective treatment while minimizing damage to surrounding tissues.
Zeiss Lumera Microscope – Enhanced Surgical Visualization
The Zeiss Lumera Microscope used during surgery provides unparalleled visual clarity, essential for performing intricate procedures like vitreoretinal surgery.High-definition optics allow the surgeon to see even the smallest details, ensuring the highest level of accuracy during surgery. Its depth of field and contrast capabilities are particularly beneficial for complex vitreoretinal cases, enhancing both safety and visual outcomes for patients.
Why Mahajan Eye Centre?
Expertise and Experience
Our experienced surgeons have been managing age related macular degeneration cases for decades, ensuring high success rates and patient satisfaction.
Advanced Technology
Our investment in latest technology (OCT, FFA, intravitreal Injections etc.) enables us to provide safer, precise, and efficient treatment and surgeries.
Personalized Care
We customize every aspect of your AMD management, from diagnostic tests to selecting the treatment that best suits your condition and vision needs.
Comprehensive Post-Op Care
Our team will guide you through a smooth recovery process, ensuring that any post-surgery issues are promptly addressed as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Dry AMD
- The more common form, characterized by the gradual thinning of the macula and the formation of drusen (yellow deposits). It progresses slowly and usually causes mild to moderate vision loss
2. Wet AMD
- A less common but more severe form caused by abnormal blood vessels growing under the retina, leading to fluid leakage or bleeding. It can cause rapid and significant vision loss.
- A less common but more severe form caused by abnormal blood vessels growing under the retina, leading to fluid leakage or bleeding. It can cause rapid and significant vision loss.
Dilated Fundus Examination: To detect drusen or abnormalities in the macula.
Amsler Grid Test: To identify distortions in central vision.
Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): Provides detailed imaging of the retina to detect fluid, swelling, or other changes.
Fundus Fluorescein Angiography (FFA): Identifies abnormal blood vessel growth in wet AMD.
Wet AMD: Treated with anti-VEGF injections (e.g., Avastin, Eylea, Pagenax, or Vabysmo) to block abnormal blood vessel growth and reduce fluid leakage. In some cases, laser therapy may also be used.
Gene therapy to address genetic causes of AMD.
Long-acting anti-VEGF implants that reduce the need for frequent injections.
Stem cell therapy to regenerate damaged retinal tissue.
These treatments hold promise for the future and may become widely available in the coming years
These FAQs provide essential information on AMD, helping patients understand the condition, its risks, and the importance of timely intervention and management. Let me know if you'd like any adjustments or additional questions!