New Genetic Testing Age Related Macular Degeneration

By Khuram A. Khan, MD

Chesapeake Retina Centers

. http://www.chesapeakeretina.com/

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New Genetic Testing Age Related Macular Degeneration

Age Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a disease associated with aging that gradually affects central vision. Central vision is needed for seeing objects straight ahead clearly and for common daily tasks such as reading and driving.

There are two types of AMD Dry AMD and Wet AMD.

Dry AMD is the more common type. 90% of patients with AMD have Dry AMD. Patients with Dry AMD may have the following symptoms

Blurred Vision and distortion of vision

Needing more light when reading

Not being able to recognize faces

Dry AMD usually affects both eyes, but some patients may only notice symptoms in one eye. Dry AMD progression is slow and is broken down into three stages Early, Intermediate and Advanced AMD.

The only treatment proven to help with dry AMD is high doses of specific vitamins. These vitamins are commercially available as an over-the-counter supplement. This combination of vitamins has been proven to slow the progression of AMD. Patients with AMD are also instructed to self monitor their vision for any signs of blurred or distorted vision.

Wet AMD is less common and can cause a more rapid decrease or distortion of central vision.

Many people are at risk for AMD. The main risk for AMD is age. Overall there is a 9% chance of developing AMD in adults over age 40. This increases to 30% in adults over the age of 75.

The greatest challenge in treatment of AMD is early detection of conversion from dry AMD to wet AMD. Early detection and treatment gives patients the greatest chance of maintaining vision and preventing vision loss. One method used to combat the challenge of early detection, is to determine which patients have a genetic predisposition to develop advanced AMD. High-risk patients may benefit from more intensive monitoring. Studies have found over 10 genetic risk markers for advanced AMD. There is now new genetic testing available to predict an individual’s personal risk of development of advanced AMD with vision loss.

The test is quick, easy and painless. Two cheek swabs are collected in our office and sent to the lab. Results are sent back within 3-6 weeks. The results help stratify the patients into different risk categories. The doctor can then go over your risk assessment and suggested monitoring frequency.

Contact your eye care professional today to see if you may benefit from this test.