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Dry (Atrophic) Macular Degeneration
Dry (Atrophic) Macular Degeneration Video
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Dry (atrophic) macular degeneration is a slowly progressive condition characterized by the accumulation of drusen in the retina with some visual loss. Dry macular degeneration alone rarely causes severe visual impairment or blindness.
As portions of the RPE continue to slow down the transport of nutrients and wastes (see previous chapter), the overlying photoreceptors become damaged. The size and number of drusen in the macula increase. Vision may be affected as RPE and photoreceptor cells are lost due to atrophy.
This retinal photograph shows many drusen in the macula. These drusen are typical of dry macular degeneration. (Click image for full size image.)
In dry macular degeneration, waste products from the photoreceptors accumulate underneath the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). The wastes appear as yellowish spots called drusen. (Click image for full size image.)
The visual changes in dry macular degeneration correlate with the loss of function of corresponding areas of the retina. Occasionally, a large region of cells will be lost. This is called “geographic atrophy” and produces a blind spot in the central portion of vision. This blind spot is called a scotoma.
If you have macular degeneration, it is essential that you report any changes in your vision to your eye doctor immediately. Careful self–monitoring with the Amsler grid and regular examinations by an eye doctor are critical to preserving your vision. This is because some people with dry macular degeneration will develop the more severe, “wet” form of the disease.
This retinal photograph shows geographic atrophy in the macular region resulting from advanced dry macular degeneration. (Click image for full size image.)
Aside from vitamin therapy and controlling your risk factors, there is no proven prevention or treatment for the dry form of macular degeneration. Fortunately, the majority of people who have reached this stage of macular degeneration will not progress to the more serious, wet form.
Regular use of the Amsler grid is important if you have macular degeneration. Small blind spots may appear in your vision as dry macular degeneration progresses. The Amsler grid may help you notice changes in your vision that might otherwise be missed.
Used with permision from the Macula Foundation, Inc.