The retina is nervous tissue in the eye that captures light and images to be sent through the optic nerve to the brain. The brain interprets these signals into images. The macula is the most sensitive part of the retina. When the macula is damaged central vision is affected, which can impair certain activities such as reading or driving.

AMD is a very common eye disease in patients more than 50 years old.

In the dry form of AMD, antioxidants and vitamins are recommended. This has been demonstrated in large multicenter trials to be effective in limiting damage to the retina. Occasionally, laser treatments can be performed in the dry type of AMD to close off some blood vessels.

In the wet form of AMD, there are several treatment options available. The treatment will depend on the extent of AMD and whether there is scar tissue present.

Photodynamic therapy is performed with the use of a photosensibilizing drug injected through the vein, and laser therapy applied to the retina to cauterize abnormal blood vessels. Photodynamic therapy has been shown to be effective in limiting the growth of neovascular membranes.

Anti-angiogenic therapy is the newest treatment modality. Large clinical trials have demonstrated anti-angiogenic therapy to be more effective in treating neovascular membranes caused by wet AMD. Furthermore, studies have shown that visual acuity can actually improve with this form of treatment.

Vision aids are also helpful in improving the quality of life of patients with AMD. These aids include: * eye loupes * telescopes * closed circuit portable televisions

These types of vision aids are available at the Tijuana Eye Center, Department of Subnormal Vision