Age‐related macular degeneration (AMD)

Question 1

Age‐related macular degeneration (AMD) presentation

Answer 1

Examine this elderly patient’s fundi. She complains of recent loss of vision.

Question 2

Clinical signs of Age‐related macular degeneration

Answer 2

A. Wet (neovascular and exudative) or dry (non neovascular, atrophic and non‐exudative)
b. Macular changes:
1. Drusen (extracellular material)
2. Geographic atrophy
3. Fibrosis
4. Neovascularization (wet)

Question 3

Risk factors of Age‐related macular degeneration

Answer 3

1. Age,
2. White race,
3. Family history and
4. Smoking
   * Wet AMD have a higher incidence of coronary heart disease and stroke

Question 4

Treatment of Age‐related macular degeneration

Answer 4

1. Ophthalmology referral
2. Wet AMD may be treated by intravitreal injections of anti‐VEGF (Anti–vascular endothelial growth factor)
   (though can increase cerebrovascular and cardiovascular risk)

Question 5

Prognosis of Age‐related macular degeneration

Answer 5

• Majority of patients progress to blindness in the affected eye within 2 years of diagnosis