What are “Dry” and “Wet” Macular Degeneration?
The vast majority of cases of macular degeneration are the “dry” type, in which there is thinning or deterioration of the tissues of the macula or the formation of abnormal yellow deposits called “drusen.” Progression of “dry” macular degeneration usually occurs very slowly and does not always affect the two eyes equally. “Wet” macular degeneration occurs when abnormal or leaking blood vessels grow underneath the retina in the area of the macula. These changes can lead to distorted or blurred vision and, in some cases, a rapid and severe loss of “straight ahead” vision. How is Macular Degeneration Diagnosed? Changes of the macula can usually be seen by looking into the eye with various instruments. A chart known as an Amsler Grid can be used in the office and at home to pick up subtle changes in your vision. Angiography is the most widely used diagnostic test. It involves injecting a special dye into your arm and taking pictures of the blood vessels of the eye as the dye flows through
Related Questions
- Do you or someone you know have low vision caused by Macular Degeneration, Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP), Diabetes, or another vision condition?
- What is photodynamic therapy, when is it used to treat age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and what are the risks/benefits?
- What is age related macular degeneration (ARMD)?
