Dry Age Related Macular Degeneration and Treatment
Dry ARMD
Things You Should Know
The dry type of age related macular degeneration (ARMD) affects approximately 80-90% of individuals with AMD. In dry age-related macular degeneration, small white or yellowish deposits, called drusen, form in the retina in the macular area, causing it to deteriorate or degenerate over time. It is this degeneration of the macular area which can lead to vision loss. The small yellow deposits beneath the retina are a buildup of waste materials. They are made up of cholesterol, protein and fats. Typically, when drusen first form, they don’t cause any vision loss. However, they are a risk factor for progressing to vision loss.
When a person has more advanced dry macular degeneration, there are many more of these small yellowish deposits and they are larger. The status and progression of dry age related macular degeneration should be closely monitored in order to identify the onset of bleeding below the retina as early as possible should it occur.
Dr. Unterberger is pleased to offer OCT technology to monitor for the progression of dry macular degeneration and to identify any bleeding at its earliest stages.
