Definition: This is a very long term for loss of central vision due to a deterioration of a part of the retina known as the macula. The macula is a part of the retina that processes vision in the center of your eye. Sometimes with aging, the macula deteriorates. This causes problems with driving, reading and many common tasks. Treatment can include laser surgery on the macula.
Causes
The retina needs a very specific set of nutrients. Many of the nutrients in the blood are harmful to the sensitive retina. The retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) is a layer of tissue that filters the flow of nutrients to the retina. When the RPE breaks down, the retina can become thin or dry, or even leak.This condition become more common as people age. By age 75, almost 15 percent of people have some form of macular degeneration. Smoking can greatly increase a person’s risk for this condition.
Treatment
If macular degeneration causes leaking (known as wet macular degeneration) a treatment exists that injects a photo-sensitve medication into the bloodstream. Once that medication has reached the eyes, a laser is shone into them. This causes the abnormal, leaking blood vessels to be destroyed. Medications and other procedures also exist for wet macular degeneration.Dry macular degeneration (when there is no leaking) has no treatment, though there is some indication that zinc may slow progression.
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Source: ADAM Medical Encyclopedia. Macular Degeneration
