Bylsma GW, Guymer RH. Treatment of age-related macular degeneration.
Clin Exp Optom 2006;
88:322-34. [PMID:
16255691 DOI:
10.1111/j.1444-0938.2005.tb06716.x]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2005] [Revised: 05/23/2005] [Accepted: 06/10/2005] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the greatest cause of legal blindness in the western world. Established treatments include argon laser photocoagulation of extrafoveal choroidal neovascularisation (CNV) and photodynamic therapy of selected sub-foveal CNV. Newer approaches are targeting the angiogenic pathway in CNV development. Currently, other treatment modalities, such as radiotherapy and transpupillary thermotherapy do not have a clear role to play. Surgical options are experimental and only available in some centres for selected patients. Prevention of AMD remains elusive. Dietary supplements may have a role, while statins and prophylactic laser photocoagulation of drusen remain experimental. This paper explains the principles behind these approaches.
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