Macular Degeneration

The macula is a small area of the retina, the light-sensitive layer inside the eye which is essential for the sense of sight. The macula is very important because it provides the sharpest vision, hence, it is responsible for how clearly we see something when we are concentrating our attention on it. The macula allows us to see the fine details in things, and it provides us with the vison we need in order to read and write, to use a computer, to drive a vehicle, to sew or do other handiwork, to observe scenery, to watch sports, etc. It also is the area of the retina that as allows us to see and differentiate colours.

The most common cause of blindness in Australia is age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which affects one in seven people over the age of 50, increasing to one in three people over the age of 75. AMD involves the degeneration of the central part of the retina (the macula) causing loss of vision as the disease progresses. In the past, having AMD meant going blind for many people. The worst form of the disease, known as 'wet' AMD, had no successful treatment options available until recently. Thankfully this changed with the introduction of a revolutionary new type of drug that prevents the growth of the abnormal blood vessels. The results of these drugs have been very impressive, with one such drug, known as Lucentis®, preventing further loss of vision in more than 90%, and greatly improving vision in more than 30% of patients.

How is Macular Degeneration treated?

Depending on the specific type and severity of the retinal condition, the following treatment options may be available: oral medications, eye drops, laser treatment, photodynamic therapy, eye injections or retinal surgery.