The central part of the retina (for central, straight-ahead vision), called the macula, too often is affected in the older age groups by degenerative disease. Age-related macular degeneration (ARMD) can result in a profound loss of central vision but does not lead to total blindness, as the periphery of the retina is not involved. The disease is very frustrating both to the patient and the ophthalmologist since treatment thus far is poor. The disease is seen in two forms: A slow progression of loss of central vision usually means the strictly degenerative "dry" form for which there is no generally accepted type of treatment. Rapid loss of central vision often signals the "wet" variety which usually means that abnormal blood vessels with leakage of fluid has taken place in the macula. Sometimes laser ablation or photodynamic dye and laser treatment of the leaking vessels can stop progression of the wet form but previous vision usually is not obtained. Many believe that a diet of antioxidants (vitamins, spinach, etc.) can help prevent ARMD; conclusive evidence does not exist. Expensive vitamin compounds for macular degeneration have not been shown to be better than simple vitamins (no megadose) and a diet of antioxidants.
Eye Medical Clinic
220 Meridian Avenue
San Jose, California, 95126
(408) 869-3400
Retinal Detachment
