 |
Macular Degeneration
|
If you are diagnosed with macular degeneration the next step is to confirm the diagnosis through special tests.
Confirming the Diagnosis
When your doctor detects symptoms of wet macular degeneration, a special test called an angiogram and/or optical coherence tomography may be ordered. There are two types of angiograms and both involve the injection of dye into your arm. The dye travels throughout the body and, as it passes through your eye, photographs are taken. These photographs allow your doctor to determine the presence of macular degeneration.
Optical coherence tomography does not involve the injection of dye. It shows a cross section of retina, and allows your doctor to determine if fluid is present which is helpful in evaluating the presence and response to therapy of wet macular degeneration.
Treatment Options
There are several options for treating wet macular degeneration, including injections, laser therapy and surgery. Because we at the Retina Health Center have been actively involved in the research leading to the approval and adaptation of many of these medications and treatments, your physician has the experience to help you decide which of the treatment options is best for you.
Injection of Medications
The most common treatment for macular degeneration involves injections of medication into the eye. While this may sound unpleasant, most patients feel little or no pain, thanks to anesthetics. The most effective medications available are Lucentis and Avastin, which can be used for the treatment of macular degeneration. Lucentis has been found to significantly improve vision in up to 40 percent of people with wet macular degeneration. Stabilization (< 15 letters of vision loss) occurs in up to 95 percent of individuals. Avastin, which is approved for the treatment of colon and breast cancer, can be used “Off Label” (i.e. it is not approved by the FDA for this use) and early reports have shown a similar response to that for Lucentis. Another medication, Macugen, is also available, but it tends to be less effective.
Laser Treatment
When abnormal blood vessel growth is discovered early, laser treatment may be used to prevent further bleeding and deter future growth, helping to preserve vision. By applying laser light to the abnormal vessels that develop in wet macular degeneration, the vessels can be sealed and vision preserved. The procedure is performed in the office under local anesthetic, takes only minutes and is virtually painless. Most patients resume their normal routines, except for strenuous activity, almost immediately. In some people, laser treatment may be performed after infusion of a photosensitivity drug, which helps to preserve vision. This treatment is called photodynamic therapy.
Surgical Treatment
The use of surgery is becoming less frequent due to the development and availability of medications like Lucentis and Avastin. In certain individuals, however, vision can be stabilized or sometimes improved through surgical treatment. One procedure that has shown promising results is called a retinal translocation.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The contents and information on the Retina Health Center Web site are for your informational use only. Our site is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider for any questions you may have regarding any medical condition. Never disregard, or delay seeking advice from a qualified health professional solely because of something you read on this, or any other, Web site.
