Types of Macular Degeneration (AMD)


Dry AMD

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Most cases of AMD are categorised as dry AMD and this condition is non-neovascular.  The retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) layer of the eye gradually become damaged overtime.  Waste products from the photoreceptor cells then build up under the RPE.  Overlying photoreceptors then begin to die and vision slowly deteriorates.  The macular tissues become thinner or/and pigment may be deposited in the macula.  Vision starts to deteriorate starting with gradual central blurring and then colour begins to fade away.  There is no medical cure for dry AMD but magnifying glasses can be used with detailed work such as reading.

Wet AMD

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Wet AMD is neovascular and is due to new blood vessels growing under the retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) or between the RPE and the photoreceptors.  The Bruch’s membrane then weakens.  Bleeding and eye scarring then impairs vision by damage of the macula.  This form of AMD can develop very quickly and can respond to treatment quite well if identified in the early stages.  It is however, significantly less common than dry AMD.

Wet Macular Degeneration can be split into two categories:

  • Occult - Blood vessel growth is not pronounced and leakage is not severe. 
  • Choroidal Neovascularization (CNV) - New blood vessel growth and scarring are severe and can be clearly identified underneath the retina.  Loss of vision is more serious compared with occult wet AMD.

People often suffer from both dry and wet macular degeneration and both eyes are usually affected but one eye may show symptoms long before the other. 

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For further information and support on macular disease, contact:

Macular Disease Society

PO Box 1870
Andover
SP10 9AD
Registered Charity No. 1001198
Tel: O845 241 2041
Fax: 01264 350558
Email: info@maculardisease.org
Web: www.maculardisease.org

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