Macular Degeneration
Also known as ARM (Age Related Maculopathy), is damage or breakdown of the macula. The central part of the retina which is responsible for fine detailed vision.
Affects on Vision
- It becomes difficult to see small detail
- Reading may become difficult
- Vision to the side is not greatly affected
- ARM does not cause blindness since some of the side (peripheral) vision remains
Causes of ARM
Aging process in the eye is the main cause for the condition. Some layers of the retina thicken, and waste which is usually removed from the retina forms deposits, distorting the retina. In a minority of cases (approximately 10%) new blood vessels grow into the macula region and often leak blood into the retina. This causes scarring which affects central vision severly
How common is ARM?
- 4% of 40 – 50 years of age
- 9% of 50-65 years of age
- 23% of 60-80 years of age
- 31% of over 80 years of age
Men and women are equally affected. ARM accounts for up to 45% of “legal blindness”.
Detection and Diagnosis of ARM
We perform following tests to detect the presence of ARM in the early stages:
- Ophthalmoscopic examination
- Dilated pupil examination with Binocular Indirect Ophthalmoscope
- Amsler Grid Chart
- OCT – optical computerised tomography to evaluate the retina
Macular Degeneration displayed on OCT Image
Treament of ARM
Nerve cells cannot regenerate, so damage to the retina is usually permanent. If the blood vessels leak, laser surgery or injection of the latest anti vascular endothelial growth factor (aVEGF) compounds may be performed. Many people with ARM will eventually be classed as “low vision”. Your optometrist will prescribe the appropriate low vision magnifying aids.
Treatment of ARM is most effective if initiated early. Regular eye examinations are the key to early diagnosis. If you notice any change in your vision, have your eyes examined immediately.
