Can we reach consensus on an agreed classification system for phenotyping AMD?
As discussed previously, there are very few recognized phenotypes in AMD. The ones in existence are currently well-known and agreed upon. Additional phenotypes will have to come from fundus reading/grading center collections. The meeting participants discussed and compared their classification schemes for reading AMD fundus photos. The eight reading centers represented at this meeting are the largest AMD fundus photo collections in existence. In reviewing classification schemes, it became clear that these eight centers had similar classifications systems that provide a cohesive system to read/grade AMD fundus photos and to describe new phenotypes. A consensus was reached to use these systems as a standard for the identification of future phenotypes. The two tables describing these classification systems were compiled by Dr. Tunde Peto of the Institute of Ophthalmology and are included as an appendix in this report. What recommendations would the meeting participants make as a next step