Eye Physicians of Central New York

Dry Macular Degeneration - To understand Macular Degeneration, it's important to learn about several layers of the eye: the choroid, Bruch's membrane, and the retinal pigment epithelium. The choroid supplies blood and other nutrients to the retina. The choroid is covered by a thin membrane called Bruch's membrane. On top of Bruch's membrane lies the retinal pigment epithelium.

In the earliest stages of this disease, yellow deposits called drusen form beneath the retina. Drusen are considered to be the dry form of Macular Degeneration and usually do not affect vision. However, when drusen expands in size and number, they can distort vision. When present for a log time, drusen may cause the macula to thin and stop functioning. This is known as Atrophic Dry Macular Degeneration.

This tissue degeneration triggers a slow and progressing loss of central vision. Some people with this form will detect "blank" areas in their central vision. Dry Macular Degeneration is more common that the wet form, occurring in approximately 90% of people with the condition. Since the dry form can progress to the wet form, it is important to monitor your vision daily with a tool called an Amsler Grid.

Wet Macular Degeneration - The wet, or Exudative, form of Macular Degeneration is responsible for up to 90% of the severe vision loss associated with this condition. Wet Macular Degeneration is caused by the growth of new abnormal blood vessels from the choroidal neovascularization (CNV). These abnormal blood vessels first leak fluid under the macula, then form scar tissue leading to central vision loss.

Pigment Epithelial Detachment, or PED, is another for of Wet Macular Degeneration. PED is a blister of fluid that forms in the macula causing blurring or distorted vision. Laser treatment may be recommended to correct this condition.