What is the difference between Dry and Wet Macular Degeneration?

By admin | Jan 18, 2017

Dry macular degeneration also known as Dry AMD is the most common condition associated with age-related macular degeneration. Dry AMD is caused when yellow or white deposits called drusen accumulate under the retina.

When drusen begin to grow, or multiply they cause a distortion in vision. Drusen may increase over time and cause damage potentially destroying the cells in the macula. Dry AMD patients may have blind spots in the center of their visual field and or color perception loss as the central vision of the eye is reduced in advanced cases.

Wet macular degeneration is the most advanced form of AMD. It is accountable for roughly 90 percent of advanced vision loss associated with macular degeneration. Wet AMD occurs when the eye begins to grow new abnormal blood vessels from the choroid into the retina. This usually results in fluid and blood accumulating in the retina affecting vision 

When this occurs, cells become damaged causing sudden or decreased loss in central vision.

What are my treatment options?

There are several treatment options for Wet AMD. Wet AMD can be treated with an intraocular injections. The most common family of intraocular injections are those called anti-VEGF injections.  This family of medicines helps stop the growth of new blood vessels.  Depending on the needs of our patients we use three types of anti-VEGF injections. Lucentis is an anti-angiogenic drug that prevents the growth of new blood vessels in the eye. Avastin uses a similar mechanism as Lucentis in stopping the growth of leaking blood vessels. Eylea is another form of treatment similar to Lucentis that helps stop new vessels from growing in a slightly different way. Your retina specialist will decide which injection is best suited for you.

Although there are no medical treatments for Dry AMD, lifestyle changes have been beneficial for those suffering from the disease. Some of these include vision rehabilitation, and a healthy diet rich in antioxidants and zinc.

If you have been diagnosed with macular degeneration, your doctor will likely refer you to a retina specialist that can properly assess your condition and come up with a treatment plan that is most appropriate for you. Here at Retina Consultants of Boston we pride ourselves in delivering customized treatment options for patients suffering from these diseases.  We will work closely with you in order to best preserve your sight.  We are currently accepting new patients call and book your appointment today!