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Macular degeneration, age-related

Feature: Age-related macular degeneration

The retina in the eye is an impressive organ. With more than 120 million light-sensitive cells it converts light into messages to the brain in fractions of a second. And it is the centre of the retina, called the macula, which allows us to see particularly fine details. But it is just this part of the retina that can get damaged with age, and this can threaten our sight. Although this condition, called age-related macular degeneration, is common, the medical options for it are limited. Read here about who can benefit from at least slowing down the progress of this condition.

Research summaries

Age-related macular degeneration: What can photodynamic therapy do?

Photodynamic therapy can slow down the development of certain damage to the retina occurring with age for some people with age-related macular degeneration, but it cannot reverse existing visual impairment. more...

Age-related macular degeneration: Can thermal laser therapy help slow down vision loss?

Thermal laser therapy can reduce vision loss in one type of wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD). But the effect is only noticeable two years after treatment, and the therapy can reduce vision in the short term. This risk could be higher for people with the most common type of wet AMD. more...

Age-related macular degeneration: What are the benefits and harms of drugs that are injected into the eyeball?

Regular injections of Lucentis or Macugen can slow down vision loss for some people with one form of age-related macular degeneration. Both the injection itself and the drug can cause adverse effects. more...